Odisha migrant worker ‘murdered’ in Tamil Nadu, family seeks help to get body back

Another case of an Odia migrant worker’s death in Tamil Nadu has surfaced raising concern over the safety and security of labourers working outside the State. 

The deceased, identified as Budhu Baria from Putisbahal village under Patnagarh police limits in Bolangir, had gone to Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, for work four months ago.

His family alleged that he was murdered, though the exact circumstances remain unclear, sources added. 

“We were informed that Budhu was dead and his body was charred. He has been murdered. After getting the information, I went to Patnagarh police station, but no one paid heed. Later, I went to block office, but did not get any result,” alleged relative of the deceased labour.

Being financially weak, the family is unable to bring back his body and has sought help from the authorities. They have approached the Bolangir SP, demanding justice and assistance in retrieving the mortal remains, sources informed.

“A couple of days back we received a call that Budhu died due to an accident. But in the photo, which we received, looks like he has been murdered and they are giving it an accident angle,” a local alleged. 

While the police have refrained from commenting on the case, the Bolangir SP has assured that arrangements will be made to bring back the body and a thorough investigation will be conducted into the incident.