MigrantSafety – TMC Flags Worker Death in Gujarat
MigrantSafety- The Trinamool Congress has raised serious concerns following the death of a migrant worker from West Bengal in Gujarat, describing the incident as a troubling signal about the safety of Bengali workers employed in states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The body of 38-year-old Sonamoni Bairagya, originally from Purba Bardhaman district, was discovered in her accommodation in Gujarat, where she had been working as a hotel attendant. The development has sparked political reactions in West Bengal, with the ruling party calling for greater accountability and a thorough investigation.
Political Allegations Over Worker Safety
In a statement issued on social media on Sunday, the Trinamool Congress said the circumstances surrounding Bairagya’s death point to what it termed a growing security challenge for migrant labourers from West Bengal working outside the state. The party did not directly assign a motive in this particular case but argued that recent incidents reflect what it described as an emerging pattern of crimes targeting Bengali workers.
The party also referred to the recent killing of Sukhen Mahato, another migrant worker from West Bengal, in Maharashtra. It alleged that the seriousness of that case had not been adequately addressed. According to the Trinamool Congress, repeated reports involving migrant workers in BJP-ruled states demand closer scrutiny and stronger protective measures.
Investigation Underway, Motive Yet to Be Determined
While emphasizing that investigations are still in progress, the party acknowledged that the precise cause and motive behind Bairagya’s death have not yet been officially confirmed. It nevertheless stated that recurring incidents involving migrant workers raise broader questions about their safety and dignity.
There has been no immediate response from the Bharatiya Janata Party regarding the allegations. Authorities in Gujarat have not released detailed findings about the circumstances of the death so far.
Family Raises Doubts Over Suicide Claim
Back in West Bengal, Bairagya’s family has expressed doubts about the version reportedly conveyed by hotel authorities in Gujarat. According to her relatives in the Nandanghat area of Purba Bardhaman district, they were informed that she had died by suicide inside her room. However, family members say they suspect foul play.
Her sister, Shefali Karmakar, lodged a formal complaint at Nandanghat police station on Saturday, stating that she does not believe Bairagya would have taken her own life. The family has called for a comprehensive and impartial probe into the incident.
A senior police officer in Purba Bardhaman district confirmed that a complaint has been registered and that an inquiry has begun from their end. Local police officials said they are coordinating as required under legal procedures.
Migration Linked to Employment Challenges
The Trinamool Congress further claimed that Bairagya had moved to Gujarat in search of work after her family faced financial strain. The party alleged that disruptions in employment opportunities under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act had contributed to her decision to migrate. It described the situation as an economic hardship that compelled many workers to seek jobs outside West Bengal.
Political leaders in the state have also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the matter, arguing that incidents occurring in BJP-ruled states warrant closer examination of governance and law enforcement practices.
Broader Debate on Migrant Worker Protection
The incident has once again brought attention to the conditions faced by migrant workers across India. Labour migration remains a significant part of the country’s workforce dynamics, with many individuals relocating in search of stable income and improved livelihoods.
As investigations continue, officials are expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding Bairagya’s death. The outcome may play an important role in shaping the ongoing debate over migrant safety, employment challenges, and inter-state coordination on worker protection.