Khaprakhol: Even as the government pumps in crores of rupees to provide work throughout the year to migrant workers, the picture seems different in villages under Khaprakhol block in Bolangir district.
The poor are forced to leave their village and work as migrant labourers in other states due to unavailbility of a source of livelihood.
Many lose their lives due to risky situations in the workplace while many are left handicapped for life. However, there has been no stern rule or regulations to trace out the victims and provide them government aid. This had forced many families to live a life of distress, especially in rural tribal pockets.
An example is the condition of Purna Bag (41) of Kulihamunda village under Rengali panchayat. Purna had gone to work in Vishakhapatnam of Andhra Pradesh back in 2013.
On his way back home for a vacation, he was hit by an over-speeding vehicle. He fell unconscious and woke up after two days to find himself in a hospital with his leg broken. After being informed by the medical authorities, Bag’s relatives reached the hospital and brought him home.
However, lack of proper treatment has worsened his condition over the five years. He fails to stand on his own and do any work. Bag has been bed-ridden and cannot work. This has badly affected the source of income of his family with no one to earn.
In all, 20kg rice under NFSA Act is the only source of food for the family. Locals sympathised with Bag and called for the administration to take notice of his plight and provide necessary help. PNN