116 migrant workers rescued after RTO intercepts overloaded bus in Odisha’s Malkangiri

As part of intensified enforcement drives against unsafe and unauthorised passenger transport, a private bus named Balaji was intercepted by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) near MV-16 village in Malkangiri district. The vehicle was found carrying more than 116 migrant labourers, allegedly returning home from Hyderabad to Kantabanji.

According to sources, officials from the RTO flagged down the bus during a routine inspection for overloading and safety violations.

Upon checking, it was discovered that the bus was transporting over 116 labourers, far beyond the permissible passenger limit.

According to preliminary information, all rescued individuals were interstate migrant workers who were crammed inside the bus, presenting a risky travel arrangement and possible exploitation.

Reports also mentioned that the transport department has initiated further investigations into the matter and is probing the travel operator for violating transport norms and endangering the lives of migrant workers.

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Recurring Concerns About Migrant Labourer Welfare

This incident once again throws light on the ongoing plight of Odisha’s migrant labourers. About a month ago, in a separate incident from Keonjhar district, 30-year-old Madhusudan Naik, a migrant worker from Kumunia village, was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Chennai.

His family alleged that he had been brutally murdered, citing photographs that showed his hands tied with wire and injuries across his body.

Despite repeated requests, the family received little to no help from local authorities or the Labour Department. Financial constraints forced them to abandon efforts to bring his body home. His remains were eventually cremated in Chennai, triggering outrage and calls for greater accountability.