Odisha migrant worker dies due to 'employer harassment'

A grieving family in Bolangir district claimed on Monday that the life of their family member, who migrated outside the State for work, tragically ended due to exploitation by his employer.

The elder brother of the deceased and the brother’s wife, who had gone to demand a refund of the previously paid advance money, have been detained by the employer.

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The migrant worker, Siba Majhi, who hailed from Kuanbaunsa locality under the jurisdiction of Patnagarh Police, took on work outside the state alongside his wife, guided by an agent. This agent identified as Ashok Barik reportedly obtained employment for them against an advance of Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000 per head.

According to the family, Siba was subjected to severe working conditions, which they allege contributed to his untimely death. Furthermore, in a bid to reclaim the initial payment, it is alleged that the employer detained Siba's brother and sister-in-law, amplifying the family's distress, it is alleged.

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“His (Siba’s) body was severely aching and he was feeling very uneasy. I took him to the hospital for treatment but to no avail. I had informed the employer and he asked for money from us instead,” the deceased’s wife Raimati Majhi expressed.

The claims highlight ongoing issues regarding the treatment of migrant labourers. While the specifics of this case continue to emerge, it raises broader questions about labour rights and employer accountability.

The District administration is yet to comment on these allegations, as the family seeks justice for the deceased.