‘Labourers Worst Affected In Covid-19, Need Special Attention’

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dad (BJD) and Congress today demanded special assistance scheme for the labourers especially migrant workers who are once again worst affected in the second wave of Covid-19 outbreak, just months after having to face innumerable hardships due to the pandemic.

BJD MP Subhas Singh alleged that migrant workers are not given due favour in other States.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to the migrants to stay in the respective States. But, the concerned states are not taking their care. States like Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are also ignoring the plights of the migrants. Labourers are not provided with food. Dead bodies are lined up and waiting for at least two days for cremation,” BJD MP Subhas Singh said.

Similarly, Congress MLA Suresh Routray demanded implementation of a universal labour card across the country which would benefit the workers greatly.

“If the migrants are given shelter and ration in the States where they are living currently, the Covid-situation may not worsen. People would not have to rush to their home state with empty stomach amid Covid-19 fear. The Central government should implement one nation, one labour card system immediately,” Congress MLA Suresh Routray said.

BJP too reacted to the demands of BJD and Congress.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi is always concerned about the lives and livelihood of the poor. Last year, He had provided 5 kg additional rice to every citizen due to Covid situation. This year, he has also extended the scheme for the benefit of poor,” BJP General Secretary Lekhashree Samnagsinghar said.

Moreover, ‘One Nation, One Ration card’ system which was introduced by the Modi-government has been implemented in 17 States. The labourers can get their ration anywhere they live,” she added.

(Edited By Suryakant Jena)