Will the Bengal Government's Appeal to MEA Ensure the Return of 11 Stranded Migrant Workers in Oman?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Government intervention is crucial in ensuring the safety of migrant workers.
- The importance of proactive measures by local governments cannot be understated.
- Victims of fraud require immediate assistance for their wellbeing.
- Support for repatriation efforts is essential for family reunification.
- Migrant welfare should be a national priority.
Kolkata, Oct 18 (NationPress) The government of West Bengal has formally requested the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to assist in the safe repatriation of 11 migrant workers hailing from Murshidabad district, currently stranded in Oman, as reported by officials.
A press release from the Trinamool Congress indicated that these workers had been left in a vulnerable situation after falling victim to a fraudulent recruitment agency.
According to the statement, they found themselves abandoned and unsupported, forced to navigate various locations in a state of distress.
Following this, the West Bengal government took action, engaging in discussions with the MEA, resulting in the Indian Embassy in Oman stepping in to provide assistance.
The proactive measures taken by the West Bengal government have led to the workers being placed under the care of the Indian Embassy in Oman, where they are currently receiving necessary provisions such as food and shelter.
“These individuals, who ventured from their homes seeking better opportunities, have now reached out for help to reunite with their families. We sincerely hope that the Ministry of External Affairs will act swiftly and compassionately to facilitate their safe return as soon as possible,” the statement added.
Sources within the Trinamool Congress noted that this is not an isolated incident; the West Bengal government has a history of promptly addressing the needs of migrant workers in distress abroad.
“Even when workers in BJP-led states faced violence, our state government ensured their safe return. This time, Mamata Banerjee's administration has offered support in the Oman case as well,” a senior party member remarked.
He further asserted that upon their return from Oman, these 11 workers will be provided with alternative livelihood opportunities within the state.