Imagine living in a world where wealth and luxury coexist with poverty and struggle. In the Indian city of Gurugram, this stark contrast is all too real. The upscale suburbs are home to some of India’s richest individuals, while nearby slums harbor poor migrant workers, mostly from West Bengal.
Last month, hundreds of these workers were rounded up in a ‘verification’ drive targeting illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. Despite police officials denying allegations of mistreatment, many claim they were beaten and detained without access to documents.
One worker, Ather Ali Sheikh, was released after spending six days in holding centres, only to be asked if his voter and national ID cards were fake. His case is not unique – hundreds have fled, abandoning jobs, homes, and families in their haste to escape the raids.
The impact on the social fabric of Gurugram has been devastating. Residents are now facing overflowing trash and a sense of desolation where once-thriving communities existed.
Crackdowns on alleged illegal immigrants from Bangladesh have intensified under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, with many being arrested and deported. The fear is palpable in these communities, where the very notion of belonging is threatened.
The story of India’s immigration raids serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by migrant workers. As the country grapples with its own identity, it must also confront the human cost of its actions.
Source: www.bbc.com
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