What Recommendations Did Bengal Guv Send to MHA for Bengali Migrant Workers?
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Synopsis
In a significant step towards the welfare of Bengali migrant workers, Governor CV Ananda Bose has proposed urgent recommendations to the Union Home Ministry to combat harassment faced by these workers nationwide. This initiative aligns with the recent launch of the 'Shramashree' scheme by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, aimed at supporting returning workers.
Key Takeaways
- Governor CV Ananda Bose has submitted recommendations to aid Bengali migrant workers.
- A new rehabilitation scheme called ‘Shramashree’ has been launched by the state government.
- The West Bengal Migrant Worker Registration Portal is a key component of the recommendations.
- MoUs with destination states are essential for ensuring migrant workers' rights.
- A 24x7 multilingual helpline is proposed for reporting grievances.
Kolkata, Aug 19 (NationPress) Governor CV Ananda Bose has submitted an extensive eight-page proposal to the Union Home Ministry aimed at supporting Bengali migrant workers who are encountering harassment nationwide and returning to their home state.
Sources from Raj Bhavan have indicated that this report has also been sent to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This initiative from the West Bengal Governor follows a day after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unveiled a new rehabilitation scheme named ‘Shramashree’, designed for Bengali migrant workers facing difficulties in BJP-led states.
As per Raj Bhavan sources, the Governor has proposed multiple measures to tackle the issues faced by migrant workers in West Bengal and to ensure their socio-economic justice. A key recommendation is the establishment of a registration portal for migrant workers, ongoing communication with the relevant labour department, provision of affordable accommodations, and the creation of a conducive working environment.
The Governor has urged the rapid launch of the West Bengal Migrant Worker Registration Portal, emphasizing that it should be a multilingual digital platform linked to Aadhaar for worker identification. Post-registration, a unique digital Migrant Workers Card should be issued, serving as a portable identity.
Additionally, the Governor advised forming MoUs with primary states where migrant workers are employed (like Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Delhi). These agreements should clarify responsibilities regarding the enforcement of minimum wage laws, ensuring workplace safety, and creating prompt mechanisms for addressing grievances of West Bengal workers within these jurisdictions.
Furthermore, the Governor suggested appointing Labour Welfare Officers (LWOs) across major migrant hubs such as Kochi (Kerala), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Mumbai (Maharashtra), Ahmedabad (Gujarat), and Delhi.
Another significant proposal includes the construction of affordable hostels for migrants in states with high concentrations of workers.
Moreover, the 'One Family One Ration Card' scheme should be transitioned to 'One Citizen One Ration Card', enabling these workers to procure subsidized food grains from any Public Distribution System (PDS) shop across the nation.
A 24x7 multilingual helpline should be established for migrant workers to report issues such as wage theft, abuse, contractual disputes, or emergencies. Moreover, strict oversight and regulation of placement agencies involved in the recruitment of Bengali women for domestic work is essential,” expressed the source.
On Monday, Mamata Banerjee announced her government’s new scheme that aims to facilitate the return of workers desiring to come back and assist them in rebuilding their livelihoods in Bengal.
Under the ‘Shramashree’ initiative, each returning worker will receive a one-time travel assistance of Rs 5,000 along with monthly rehabilitation support of Rs 5,000 for up to 12 months until employment is secured.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the timely and necessary measures being advocated for the protection and welfare of migrant workers. The recommendations put forth by Governor CV Ananda Bose, alongside the government's initiative, reflect a commitment to addressing longstanding issues faced by these individuals. This approach is vital in ensuring justice and support for those who contribute significantly to our economy.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the recommendations sent by Bengal Governor?
The recommendations aim to provide support and protection for Bengali migrant workers facing harassment across India and ensure their socio-economic justice.
What is the 'Shramashree' scheme?
The 'Shramashree' scheme is a rehabilitation initiative by the West Bengal government for returning migrant workers, offering financial assistance to help them rebuild their livelihoods.
What is the significance of the Migrant Workers Registration Portal?
The Migrant Workers Registration Portal is designed to facilitate the identification and support of migrant workers by linking their registration to Aadhaar, thus providing them with a portable identity card.
How will the MoUs with destination states help migrant workers?
The MoUs will outline the responsibilities of destination states regarding minimum wage enforcement, workplace safety, and grievance redressal for West Bengal workers employed there.
What assistance does the 'Shramashree' scheme provide to returning workers?
Under the 'Shramashree' scheme, returning workers receive a one-time travel aid of Rs 5,000 and monthly rehabilitation support of Rs 5,000 for a duration of up to 12 months.
