Odia labourer slips into coma after accident in Dubai; family in despair

The desire to earn money and ensure a decent living for the family has been a driving factor for scores of people in Odisha to move out of the state to different parts of the country and world in search of livelihood. However, all the hopes and aspirations soon turn into despair after they fall victim to mishaps on foreign soil.

In one such incident, a man from Khallikote in Ganjam district is now battling for his life after an accident in Dubai. The Odia labourer, identified as Raju Mallick has now slipped into a coma. It was around one and a half years back that Raju left Odisha and went to work at RLS Technological Works in Dubai.

On July 21, the bus Raju was travelling met with an accident. Raju, who sustained critical injuries in the accident, is now in a coma. After getting news about the accident, Raju’s family back in Odisha is completely shattered.

Raju’s wife is unable to come to terms with the reality and faints after crying while his father spends his days sitting on the verandah holding his picture.

“The company officials are asking us to take him back as his condition is critical. The company is also not giving money. We urge the government to get him back,” said Raju’s wife, Gita.

Raju’s son Lalit said, “Though the accident happened on July 21, we got information from another labourer yesterday.”

The entire family is now praying to God and has appealed to the Odisha government to initiate steps for the treatment of Raju so that he recovers at the earliest. They have also appealed to bring him back.

Local Zilla Parishad member, Sonam Palai said, “I have brought the matter to the notice of the Collector and he has assured to discuss the matter with Commissioner and Labour department for his return and treatment.”

Manikpur Sarpanch, Udaynath Barik said, “I had met the MLA and submitted his identity proof. We are taking steps either to ensure better treatment there or bring him back.”

This is not an isolated incident. Several such tragedies have befallen the migrant labourers of Odisha.