Strangers in a Strange Land: The Challenges Faced by Migrant Workers

In a heart-wrenching tale of sacrifice and resilience, Sujeet Tigga, a 27-year-old from Odisha, embodies the struggles of countless migrant workers in India. Once aspiring to become a priest, Sujeet was forced to abandon his dreams to support his family after his father's illness. He now toils in a factory in Chennai, earning a meager Rs 700 for 12 hours of labour. His story is a poignant reminder of the harsh realities that drive many young Indians to trade their aspirations for survival.

Sujeet's journey is not an isolated one. Twenty-two young men from the Sambalpur Diocese in Odisha work alongside him, each carrying the weight of their family's well-being. Their narratives paint a vivid picture of the struggles they face, from poverty and unemployment to exploitation and isolation. These young men, aged between 19 and 27, have been forced to leave their homes and families in search of work, often in distant states with unfamiliar languages and cultures.

The mass migration of workers from northern states like Odisha, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh to southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka is a stark reminder of the uneven development and economic disparities that plague India. The lack of job opportunities, poor infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare in their home states force these young men to seek better prospects elsewhere.

However, their journey is not without its challenges. Many migrant workers face exploitation by unscrupulous employers, who take advantage of their desperation and vulnerability. They are often forced to work long hours in hazardous conditions without access to basic amenities like healthcare, sanitation, and housing. The trauma of displacement, coupled with the stress of adapting to new environments, takes a toll on their mental and physical health.

The Catholic Church has been actively engaged in supporting migrants, providing education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance. Many parishes, particularly in destination states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have established programs to support migrant workers, including special Masses, free meals, and skill training. However, more needs to be done to address the complex challenges faced by migrant workers, including illegal activities, broken families, and poor living conditions.

As they, our brothers and sisters, face these issues, we are reminded of Mahatma Gandhi's guiding principle: "Whenever you are in doubt... recall the face of the poorest and the weakest person you have seen, and ask yourself if the step you contemplate is going to be of any use to them." This principle serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable members of our society.

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are called to share the burdens of migrant workers, advocating for policies that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and economic opportunities in their home states. By walking with them, listening to their struggles, and extending our hands in solidarity, we can bring light to their darkness and ensure that migration is a choice, not a necessity.

As individuals, we can make a difference by supporting organizations that work with migrant workers, advocating for their rights, and raising awareness about the challenges they face. We can also make conscious choices in our daily lives, such as choosing to buy products that are made with fair labour practices and supporting businesses that prioritize the well-being of their employees.

Ultimately, the struggle of India's migrant workers is a call to action for all of us. It is a reminder that we are all connected and that our individual choices have the power to impact the lives of others. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

As we reflect on the struggles of migrant workers like Sujeet, we are reminded of the power of hope and resilience. Despite the odds against them, these young men continue to dream of a better future, not just for themselves but for their families and communities. Their stories inspire us to action, urging us to work towards a world where migration is a choice, not a necessity, and where every individual can live with dignity and respect.

By Sr. Sujata Jena