Will the Calcutta HC Address Harassment of Bengali-Speaking Migrants in Odisha and Delhi on July 16?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court is set to hear two critical cases regarding the harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants in Odisha and Delhi. With allegations of mistreatment and wrongful deportation, this situation has sparked significant political action, including a state-wide protest rally. What will the outcome be?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta HC to hear cases on July 16.
- Allegations of harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants.
- Reports of wrongful deportation to Bangladesh.
- Political rally planned by Trinamool Congress in Kolkata.
- Issues highlight the treatment of migrant workers in India.
Kolkata, July 14 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court announced on Monday that it will hear two distinct cases regarding the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrant laborers from West Bengal in two separate states concurrently this week rather than individually.
One case pertains to incidents of harassment faced by Bengali-speaking migrant workers in Odisha, while the other addresses similar allegations in Delhi.
Reports suggest that these Bengali-speaking laborers have been subjected to harassment by the governments of Odisha and Delhi, who have labeled them as illegal Bangladeshi migrants.
The case related to Odisha was brought before the Division Bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Reetobroto Kumar Mitra.
The Bench decided that rather than hearing the Odisha case separately, both matters will be discussed simultaneously on July 16.
On Monday, the petitioner regarding the Odisha case informed the court that a majority of the workers detained under accusations of being illegal Bangladeshi migrants have returned to West Bengal.
The petitioner also expressed optimism that the remaining migrant workers from West Bengal, still in Odisha, would soon have their return complications resolved.
On July 11, the Division Bench instructed the Union Home Ministry to provide a report concerning allegations that some Bengali-speaking migrant workers from West Bengal living in New Delhi were recently deported to Bangladesh.
The Division Bench also requested West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant to liaise with his counterpart in the Delhi government to obtain a report on the issue for submission to the court.
Coincidentally, on July 16, the Trinamool Congress is set to hold a significant rally in Kolkata, spearheaded by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, protesting against the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in other states, particularly those governed by the BJP.
In addition to the primary rally in Kolkata, the ruling party will orchestrate similar protest events across all districts.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. The allegations of harassment and mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrants highlight a significant issue in the treatment of laborers across state lines. It is crucial to ensure that the legal process is upheld while advocating for the rights and dignity of all workers, regardless of their origin.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against the governments of Odisha and Delhi?
The main allegations involve the harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers, who have been reportedly labeled as illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.
When will the Calcutta High Court hear these cases?
The Calcutta High Court is set to hear both cases simultaneously on July 16.
What actions have been taken by the Union Home Ministry regarding this issue?
The Union Home Ministry has been directed to submit a report concerning allegations of deportation of Bengali-speaking workers to Bangladesh.
What is the political response to these allegations?
The Trinamool Congress has announced a rally in Kolkata on July 16 to protest against the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking workers.
What does this situation indicate about migrant rights in India?
This situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by migrant workers in India, particularly regarding their treatment and legal status.
