The West Bengal government has requested the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to take urgent steps for the safe repatriation of 11 migrant workers from Murshidabad district who are currently stranded in Oman. Officials confirmed that the workers were reportedly deceived by a fraudulent recruitment agency and left without food, shelter, or financial assistance.
According to a statement issued by the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the stranded migrants faced severe hardships after being abandoned by the agency that had promised them legitimate employment opportunities. “Abandoned and without support, they were forced to wander from place to place in distress,” the statement said.
Following the matter’s escalation, the West Bengal government intervened by contacting the MEA, prompting swift action from the Indian Embassy in Oman. The Embassy has since provided food, shelter, and necessary care to the 11 workers while their repatriation process is being arranged.
“These individuals, who left their homes in search of livelihood, have now appealed for assistance to return to their families,” the TMC statement read. “We earnestly hope that the MEA will take swift and compassionate action to facilitate their safe return at the earliest.”
Party officials emphasized that this is not the first time the Mamata Banerjee-led administration has acted to protect the welfare of migrant workers abroad. A senior TMC leader noted that even in past incidents involving workers in BJP-ruled states, the Bengal government had extended proactive assistance to ensure their safe return.
He further revealed that once the 11 workers return home, the state government plans to help them rebuild their lives through alternative employment opportunities and rehabilitation programs.
This latest intervention highlights West Bengal’s continued commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of its citizens working overseas, particularly those exploited by illegal recruitment agencies.