Still an exploited lot

KOCHI: When labourers in Kerala are moving to Gulf countries for better jobs, hordes of workers from other states  are filling the void here. Though opportunities and payment are better compared to their native village, they are still an exploited lot and their security is at stake. “Job opportunities are few in our village, we do building work on a small scale and  get Rs. 180 per day but get around Rs. 250 and Rs. 300 here. I am living with 42 others and we cook our own food in a house in Palarivattom,” said Sanjeev from Orissa who is working at a construction site. He does not know whether his name is registered with the labour office and that the labourers here are paid more. Nearly 5 lakh migrant labourers are living in Ernakulam district and only about 10 per cent are registered. Very few contractors see that the workers are registered and live in healthy conditions.  Some live in tin sheet shanties built for them on a rent of  Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 which is a violation of building rules, Some are crowded in one room, some others in makeshift homes built by contractors and some others in spaces where they work, littering the place and being a nuisance to the neighbours. It is a violation of the Interstate Migrant Workers Act.  They should be provided decent living conditions, said George Bruno, trade union activist and state secretary of Working Class Alternative Union.   Their way of life and unhygienic surroundings may lead to health problems. “Many suffer from malaria, jaundice and other contagious diseases about which few employers are serious about. Moreover, the public health sector is not equipped to cater to their needs, especially if there is an epidemic outbreak,” said George. Depression has taken over quite a few as they have to adapt to the city lifestyle. They have to overcome work pressure. Working overtime for which they get pittance, sex suppression, lack of nutritious food are among other problems. Some of them are addicted to ‘pan’ and ganja.   The sad thing is that in case of accidents, they are denied  benefits under the  Workman’s Compensation Act. New laws have to be put in place for their welfare and existing laws should favour them such as ration and other privilege, said George. Above all they should be allowed to take the bodies to their native land in case of death. “The Labour Department should take the initiative to give each one identity cards,” said George.