An Firstpost article published in October 2026 reported that over 300 Indian workers recruited for a US consulate project in Milan by American construction company Caddell Construction allegedly received low wages with illegal deductions and worked excessively long hours.

An Italian investigation into the abuse has resulted in a EUR31 million settlement, offering compensation and work protections to impacted workers. Around 480 workers are expected to receive compensation.

The workers were allegedly recruited by an Indian recruitment agency, Dynamic House, and promised three-year employment and residence arrangements in Italy. Some were charged as much as EUR5,000 to secure the jobs.

However, they were allegedly paid less than EUR2 per hour and worked around 12 hours a day, six days a week, despite Italy's standard 40-hour working week. The workers were also reportedly denied overtime, faced threats of dismissal, and were sent back to India if they refused the conditions.

Two managers remain under house arrest over allegations including extortion and facilitating illegal immigration. The US State Department said it was investigating the allegations and that US law enforcement was working with Italian authorities.