Migrant labour trafficking persists in Odisha’s Bolangir; Labour Minister acknowledges issue

A disturbing picture of migrant labour trafficking has emerged from Odisha’s Bolangir district, where workers continue to be illegally transported out of the region regularly. Visuals from Kantabanji railway station indicate blatant violations of norms, with little apparent fear of law enforcement.

Trains departing from the station are reportedly carrying large numbers of migrant labourers, raising serious concerns over monitoring and enforcement by the local administration.

OTV Footage Reveals Inhumane Conditions

OTV accessed exclusive video footage showing illegal migrant labour movement inside the Bilaspur–Tirupati Express. The footage reveals labourers being transported in severely cramped conditions, drawing comparisons to the transport of livestock.

When questioned, labour contractors allegedly responded unapologetically, indicating a lack of concern over legal consequences.

Minister Admits Migration Driven by Lack of Employment

Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Khuntia, who attended the Mati Mahotsav in Kantabanji, acknowledged that migrant labour trafficking remains a serious concern. He admitted that many people from the region migrate to other States due to the lack of adequate local employment opportunities.

According to reports, labourers generally work outside Odisha for nearly eight months, return for agricultural work for about four months, and then migrate again. Several reports indicate that migrant workers are often subjected to exploitation and, in some cases, return home without receiving their wages. Incidents of migrant labourer deaths have also been reported in recent times.

Traffickers Speak Brazenly, Claim Impunity

In one instance, a labour trafficker was quoted as telling a worker that he feared no action from the authorities, claiming the police could not harm him. The trafficker also allegedly made promises of comfortable living conditions and financial support to lure workers.

Such statements have raised serious questions about the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms and deterrence measures.

Government Outlines Steps to Curb Trafficking

Responding to the allegations, Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Khuntia said that earlier there was a shortage of labour officers in the State. He said that after the change in government, Assistant Labour Officers have been appointed in nearly 80 per cent of the State’s 314 blocks.

“Their responsibility is to ensure proper functioning of labour offices, create awareness among people about the dangers of labour trafficking, and investigate such cases,” the Minister said.

Addressing allegations of police involvement, he said no such complaints have been officially received so far. He also acknowledged that the government has not been able to provide employment throughout the year, which has contributed to migration.

Assurance of Action and Employment Measures

Urging people to have faith in the government, the Minister said the administration has been in power for only 18 months and is taking steps to address long-standing issues. He said efforts are underway to appoint Assistant Labour Officers in all blocks and to ensure that people can access job cards and employment through various government schemes.

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The issue continues to raise serious concerns, as illegal migration and labour trafficking remain widespread despite repeated assurances and interventions.