Migrant workers harassed by employer in Alapakkam: Activist

Balaji Sampath of Aid India, who has been constantly in touch with the migrant workers of various states in the shanties at TVS Nagar in Alapakkam, says their employers, instead of letting the workers decide whether to stay and return to their hometown have been threatening them to start working again in their different construction sites as the Centre has given a go-ahead to construction activities.

“Whether the workers want to stay or leave should be decided by them, not employers. When the Centre itself has asked to arrange for the return of the stranded migrant labourers, the employer cannot force them to work,” says Balaji.

According to him, the labourers were not paid during the lockdown period and their shelter is in abysmal condition. While the workers were allegedly threatened by the local police they cannot return now, said Balaji adding he has been in touch with government officials to aide their travel back home.

However, when contacted, Maduravoyal police denied the allegations and said the matter did not come into their notice. A senior official, however, said he would look into the allegations. The employer of the migrant workers was not available for comment.

Meanwhile, a group of guest workers from other states in Koyambedu staged a protest demanding their return to hometown.

However, a police official said they are being subjected to medical tests and added misinformation led to the confusion. “They are being given food by the Corporation and their list is being prepared to facilitate their return,” said the official.