What Steps is Odisha CM Taking for the Safety of Migrant Muslim Labourers?
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Synopsis
In a pressing appeal, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury calls upon Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi to safeguard the rights and security of migrant Muslim labourers from West Bengal. This urgent plea follows alarming reports of harassment amid ongoing police initiatives to identify illegal migrants.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent Appeal: Chowdhury urges safety measures for migrant Muslim labourers.
- Community Impact: Many Bengali-speaking Muslims in Odisha face threats to their livelihood.
- Security vs. Rights: Balancing national security with humanitarian concerns is crucial.
- Government Action: Chowdhury calls for intervention from Odisha's Chief Minister.
- Voices of Innocence: Reports highlight the plight of vulnerable individuals caught in the police drive.
Bhubaneswar, April 28 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and former MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has appealed to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to prioritize the safety and security of migrant Muslim labourers from West Bengal working within the state.
In a letter addressed to CM Majhi on Monday, Chowdhury emphasized that a significant number of Bengalis, particularly from the minority Muslim community, are employed as migrant workers across various regions of Odisha.
The senior Congress leader further noted that the tragic terrorist incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which led to the loss of innocent lives, has severely impacted the nation’s security framework.
All state police forces have initiated efforts to identify unlawful Bangladeshi migrants residing in the country.
“While it is crucial to identify and deport illegal migrants, the current initiative is, unfortunately, adversely affecting the lives and livelihoods of a vulnerable segment of the population that is both innocent and impoverished,” Chowdhury wrote.
He lamented that a large number of Bengali-speaking Muslims, especially those living outside West Bengal, including Odisha, in search of employment, are facing targeting, harassment, and threats of deportation.
These labourers, primarily from underprivileged backgrounds, are reportedly the most affected by police actions associated with the ongoing campaign to identify illegal migrants.
“I have been receiving continuous reports regarding the unjust targeting and torture of innocent Bengali-speaking individuals regarding their nationality,” Chowdhury alleged.
He asserted that it is vital to safeguard the lives of impoverished and vulnerable individuals who are Indian citizens, regardless of their language, faith, culture, or background, allowing them to live peacefully.
“Therefore, I urge you to implement all possible measures to ensure that innocent Bengali-speaking individuals, whether from the majority or minority community, who are genuine Indian nationals working as labourers in Odisha, do not face harassment, humiliation, or threats to their livelihood. I look forward to your intervention in protecting the interests of these innocent Bengali-speaking people in Odisha, who are rightful citizens of our nation,” Chowdhury urged.
Point of View
It is paramount to balance security measures with the humane treatment of individuals. The concerns raised by Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury reflect the urgent need for a compassionate approach towards migrant workers, ensuring their rights are preserved while addressing national security.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to write to the Odisha CM?
Chowdhury urged the Odisha CM to ensure the safety of migrant Muslim labourers from West Bengal, who are reportedly facing harassment amid police initiatives targeting illegal migrants.
What concerns did Chowdhury express regarding the police's actions?
He expressed that the current drive to identify illegal migrants is adversely affecting innocent Bengali-speaking Muslims, leading to harassment and threats to their livelihoods.
How many migrant labourers are affected in Odisha?
A significant number of Bengali-speaking Muslims are employed as migrant labourers in various parts of Odisha, facing challenges amidst ongoing security measures.
What are the potential consequences of the police drive?
Chowdhury warned that while identifying illegal migrants is necessary, the drive is causing distress and insecurity among innocent, vulnerable communities.
What does Chowdhury request from the Odisha Chief Minister?
He requests measures to protect innocent Bengali-speaking individuals from harassment and to ensure their rights as bona fide Indian nationals.
