Several alleged fake messages and videos of attacks on Bihari migrants in Tamil Nadu have been circulating on social media in recent weeks. However, the state government and police have clarified that these claims are false and have issued warnings against spreading misinformation.
Tamil Nadu Labour Welfare and Skill Development Minister CV Ganesan has stated that officials are closely engaging with migrant workers and carrying out surveys to gather information on their safety. The state government has also instructed officials and stakeholders to take steps to protect workers, particularly in areas like Tiruppur, Erode, Coimbatore, and Nilgiris, where instances of assault and abuse on migrants are common.
Viral Video of Assault on Migrant Workers
One viral video on social media allegedly shows a man verbally and physically abusing three migrant workers on a moving train in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu railway police have registered a case and are looking for the alleged assaulter.
Arrests and Cases Registered
The Chennai Police have registered a case against Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai for inciting violence and promoting enmity between two groups after he linked the ruling DMK to the spread of rumours about migrant workers. Cases have also been registered against two journalists of a Hindi daily, Bihar BJP spokesperson Prashant Patel Umrao, among a few others for spreading rumours.
Governor and CM Reach Out to Migrant Workers
Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi and Chief Minister MK Stalin have both reached out to the migrant workers’ community in Tamil Nadu. The Governor urged North Indian labourers not to panic and assured them of the state government’s commitment to provide security. The CM visited Kanam Latex, a company that makes hand gloves, and interacted with migrant workers to enquire about their well-being.
Action by the Police and Bihar Officials
A team of officials from Bihar has been sent to Tamil Nadu to investigate the allegations of attacks on Bihari migrants. The team will meet top officials of Tamil Nadu and visit Tiruppur district, where reports of attacks on Bihari migrants have surfaced. Helpline numbers have also been issued by the Tamil Nadu police.
The government and officials in Tamil Nadu are taking steps to ensure the safety and security of migrant workers, while also warning against the spread of false information and taking action against those who incite violence or spread rumours.