14 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Social IssuesNEWS

Abhishek Banerjee Meets Family of Migrant Worker Killed in Pune

Abhishek Banerjee visits family of Bengal migrant worker killed in Pune.

Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee visited the family of Sukhen Mahato, a migrant worker from Bengal who was killed in Pune. Banerjee declined to comment on the circumstances of the death, stating it was under investigation, but demanded justice for Mahato's family. He urged the Maharashtra police to oppose bail for those involved.

The visit follows Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's description of the incident as a hate crime. Banerjee called on BJP leaders to demand punishment for those behind the murder and urged the CM to ensure jobs for Mahato's brothers. State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya raised questions on migration from the State.

Key Facts

Abhishek Banerjee visited the family of Sukhen Mahato.

Sukhen Mahato was a migrant worker from Bengal who was killed in Pune.

Banerjee demanded justice for Mahato’s family.

Mamata Banerjee termed the incident a hate crime.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Social Justice, Welfare Schemes

GS Paper I: Social Issues, Migration

Connection to Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Potential for questions on labor laws and social security

In Simple Words

Abhishek Banerjee, a leader from the Trinamool Congress party, visited the family of Sukhen Mahato, a worker from Bengal who died in Pune. Banerjee wants the police in Maharashtra to make sure the family gets justice and that those responsible don't get bail. Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister, has called the death a hate crime.

India Angle

Many Indians migrate to different states for work. This incident highlights the risks and vulnerabilities they face. Political leaders often get involved to ensure justice and support for the affected families.

For Instance

Imagine a construction worker from Bihar who dies in an accident in Mumbai. Local politicians might visit the family, promising support and demanding a fair investigation.

It's important because it shows how migrant workers are vulnerable and need protection. It also highlights the role of political leaders in advocating for justice and supporting affected families.

Justice for all, especially for vulnerable migrant workers.

Visual Insights

Location of Sukhen Mahato's Death and Origin

Shows Pune, Maharashtra where the migrant worker was killed and West Bengal, the origin state of the worker. Highlights inter-state migration.

Loading interactive map...

📍Maharashtra📍West Bengal

More Information

Background

The issue of migrant workers and their welfare is a long-standing concern in India. The Constitution of India guarantees certain fundamental rights, including the right to equality (Article 14) and the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21), which extend to all citizens, including migrant workers. However, the socio-economic realities often lead to discrimination and vulnerability for this segment of the population. Over the years, various legislations have been enacted to protect the rights of migrant workers. The Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979, aimed to regulate the employment and working conditions of inter-state migrant laborers. However, its implementation has been challenging, and it has been criticized for its limited scope and enforcement mechanisms. The Code on Social Security, 2020, seeks to consolidate and amend the laws relating to social security with the goal to extend social security to all employees and workers in both the organized and unorganized sectors. Several factors contribute to migration, including economic disparities, lack of employment opportunities, and social factors. The NITI Aayog has emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by migrant workers, including skill development, access to social security, and improved living conditions. The issue also intersects with discussions on federalism, as states have a crucial role in ensuring the welfare of migrant workers within their jurisdiction.

Latest Developments

Recent government initiatives have focused on creating a national database of unorganized workers, including migrant laborers, through the e-Shram portal. This aims to facilitate the delivery of social security benefits and other welfare measures. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities of migrant workers, leading to increased attention on their plight and demands for better protection. There are ongoing debates regarding the adequacy of existing legal frameworks and the need for more effective enforcement mechanisms. Some argue for a more comprehensive legislation that addresses all aspects of migrant workers' lives, including housing, healthcare, and education. The role of civil society organizations and NGOs in advocating for the rights of migrant workers is also crucial. Looking ahead, it is expected that migration patterns will continue to evolve, driven by economic factors and demographic changes. The government is likely to focus on strengthening social security schemes and promoting skill development programs to enhance the employability of migrant workers. Addressing issues of discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities will remain key challenges. The effective implementation of the One Nation One Ration Card scheme is also expected to improve food security for migrant workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What key issues related to social justice are highlighted by the Sukhen Mahato case?

This case highlights issues of inter-state migration, labor rights, and potential hate crime, all of which are crucial aspects of social justice. The incident raises concerns about the safety and welfare of migrant workers and the need for equitable treatment under the law.

2. How might the e-Shram portal be relevant in addressing issues arising from the Sukhen Mahato case?

The e-Shram portal aims to create a national database of unorganized workers, including migrant laborers. This database can facilitate the delivery of social security benefits and other welfare measures to workers like Sukhen Mahato, potentially offering support to their families in such unfortunate events.

3. What constitutional provisions are most relevant to the situation of migrant workers like Sukhen Mahato?

Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty) are particularly relevant. These articles guarantee fundamental rights to all citizens, including migrant workers, ensuring they are treated equally and their lives and personal liberty are protected.

4. What are the potential implications of describing the death of Sukhen Mahato as a 'hate crime'?

Labeling the incident as a hate crime can lead to stricter investigation and prosecution, potentially invoking specific laws designed to address crimes motivated by bias or prejudice. It also raises awareness about the issue of discrimination against migrant workers and may influence public opinion and policy responses.

5. What are the key facts related to the Sukhen Mahato case that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

Key facts include: Sukhen Mahato was a migrant worker from Bengal who was killed in Pune. Abhishek Banerjee visited Mahato's family and demanded justice. Mamata Banerjee described the incident as a hate crime. The incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers.

6. Why has the visit of Abhishek Banerjee to Sukhen Mahato's family become a significant news event?

The visit gained prominence due to the involvement of a prominent political figure (Abhishek Banerjee) and the sensitive nature of the incident (death of a migrant worker). The event has sparked political debate, particularly regarding the welfare of migrant workers and allegations of hate crime, making it a focal point in current affairs.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979: 1. It aims to regulate the employment and conditions of service of inter-state migrant workmen. 2. It mandates the provision of displacement allowance to migrant workmen. 3. The Act is applicable to establishments employing five or more inter-state migrant workmen. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.1 and 3 only
C.2 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979 indeed aims to regulate the employment and conditions of service of inter-state migrant workmen. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Act mandates the provision of displacement allowance to migrant workmen to compensate for the disruption caused by migration. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Act is applicable to establishments employing five or more inter-state migrant workmen. The correct number is actually five or more.

2. Which of the following fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution can be directly invoked by migrant workers facing discrimination?

A.Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19)
B.Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)
C.Right to Equality (Article 14)
D.Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25)

Show Answer

Answer: C

The Right to Equality (Article 14) guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India. Migrant workers facing discrimination can directly invoke this right. Article 32 is a constitutional remedy, not a substantive right against discrimination itself. Articles 19 and 25 are related to freedom of speech and religion, respectively, and are less directly applicable to discrimination against migrant workers.

3. Assertion (A): Migration can lead to increased vulnerability for workers due to lack of social security and access to basic services. Reason (R): The One Nation One Ration Card scheme aims to address food security concerns for migrant workers. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?

A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
C.A is true, but R is false
D.A is false, but R is true

Show Answer

Answer: B

Both A and R are true. Migration indeed increases vulnerability due to lack of social security. The One Nation One Ration Card scheme aims to address food security. However, the scheme addressing food security is not the direct cause of the increased vulnerability mentioned in Assertion A. Other factors like lack of housing, healthcare, and fair wages also contribute to vulnerability.