Fresh exodus of migrant workers to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar from Gujarat continued on Tuesday as well. But, industry sources said there is a significant reduction in the same. However, they said, rumours are doing irreparable harm to Gujarat, which should be investigated at the appropriate level to ensure that these are not repeated.
Functioning at industries remained affected for a few days after violence erupted following the rape of a toddler, allegedly by a man from Bihar, but normalcy started returning from Tuesday with units in north Gujarat resuming operations, they said.
Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) president Jaimin Vasa said though normalcy is returning, a sense of fear pervades workers, most of whom are from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. "There are always after effects of an incident. But after few days things turn normal. Same thing will happen in Gujarat also. Normalcy will soon return," said Vasa.
He said that the proactive approach of the state government, especially with strong police deployment and efforts taken by industry played role in preventing the situation from escalating further. Ajit Shah, president of Sanand Industries Association, said that till Monday, migrant workers were returning to native places, but Tuesday onwards, there are no such cases after confidence building measures.
Surat is a major hub of man-made textiles and diamond polishing. Mayur Golwala, a committee member of Federation of Gujarat Weavers Welfare Association said that there is no impact of violence against or threats to migrant workers in the city, so there is no consequent exodus. But workers have started leaving the city as units do not have sufficient orders.
"Attacks are happening because elections are approaching. What ever they want to do politically, it should not have adverse impact on business. Industrial development of Surat is based on these workers. If they are harassed, it will have an impact on economy," said Hetal Mehta, president of The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI).
Industry leaders warned against rumours. A report on digital media said that close to 47 migrant workers from Bihar are being held captive in a factory in Ahmedabad. "Taking workers hostage is unlikely. In fact we had offered workers to take shelter, if they fear danger outside. We even offered to bring them their family members. We had arranged food and other amenities for them. There must be some misunderstanding," said Shailesh Patwari, former president of GCCI. He said that such cases should be investigated and the culprit should be brought to justice.
BACK TO BASICS
Functioning at industries remained affected for a few days after violence erupted following the rape of a toddler, allegedly by a man from Bihar
Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) president Jaimin Vasa said though normalcy is returning, a sense of fear pervades workers, most of whom are from Bihar and UP
