NEFIS condemns killing of migrant workers in the State
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 12 2022:
North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) has condemned the brutal killings of migrant workers in the state.
NEFIS member Thokchom Yaiphalembi Chanu said in a release that in the last few weeks, the state witnessed a massive surge of violence and killings of migrant workers especially shooting of non-local migrant workers in Imphal, Churachandpur, Kakching and Thoubal districts.
"It is worrisome that such incidents are happening in the region at a very turbulent time when communalism and inter-ethnic clashes are being stoked, and anti immigrant sentiment is growing", said the release.
It alleged that the state government remained a mute spectator despite noticing a spurt in killings and discrimination towards the migrant workers.
"It is a matter of utter shame that though the labourers in this country are the wheels upon which the entire economy runs, they have been completely neglected by successive governments", it added.
The NEFIS member stated that anti-migrant sentiment only prevails due to lack of jobs and resources in the region and instead of resolving these issues, the government continue to ignore them.
The migrant workers only contribute to the economy while it is actually the capitalists and corporates who come to plunder the resources.
NEFIS strongly condemns the ruling government for failing to ensure communal harmony and workers' safety in the state, the member maintained and demanded that immediate action be taken regarding this issue and a thorough probe be launched.
It also demanded payment of adequate compensation to the families of the deceased persons.