A group of approximately sixty workers from Jharkhand has arrived back in their home state, claiming they were confined and mistreated while working in a textile mill located in Tamil Nadu. The workers, who reached Chakradharpur on Saturday via the Ernakulam–Tata Express, recounted horrific experiences including abuse and lack of payment during their time in captivity.

The workers alleged that they were locked inside the textile factory in Namakkal and were not permitted to leave at will. One worker reported, “They did not pay our wages when we attempted to leave; we were beaten and stopped.” It is claimed that gates to the facility were secured, and workers were coerced to continue performing labour under threats.

Moreover, accounts indicated that the labourers were provided with inadequate food, and any attempts at protesting were reportedly met with violent responses from the management.

Journey of Escape and Hardship

The workers detailed the challenges they faced while escaping from the mill and during their journey home. They managed to depart using the minimal funds they had, often resorting to paying fines for travelling without tickets. “We somehow paid the TTE and got onto the train. We had no money left, and we were hungry and exhausted,” said one labourer.

During their travel, the workers claimed to have encountered ill-treatment not only from railway personnel but also at the station upon arrival. Their ordeal continued to create a pattern of distress throughout their journey, pointing to a broader issue regarding the treatment of migrant workers.

Furthermore, the workers expressed disappointment and frustration over the lack of support provided by the Jharkhand government. “We did not receive any assistance; we were on our own,” they stated, adding that several workers are reportedly still trapped in the mill.

Concerns Over Recruitment Practices and Government Response

Reports indicate that the workers were recruited to Tamil Nadu by agents from Odisha, who had allegedly offered attractive terms such as good wages, adequate food, and suitable living conditions. Contrary to the promises made, the workers claimed they were subjected to exploitation and threats, indicative of deeper systemic issues.

The anxiety surrounding their return has raised alarms regarding the treatment of migrant labourers outside their home state. The returning workers reported facing intimidation upon their return, suggesting that they may incur further repercussions for speaking out about their experiences.

In light of these serious allegations, Chief Minister Hemant Soren has ordered an investigation into the claims made by the workers. The Chaibasa Deputy Commissioner has been instructed to gather information and verify the accounts, initiating the necessary actions based on findings.

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