Mahua Moitra Slams Detention of Bengal Workers in Odisha; Police & BJP Rebut Charges

TMC MP Mahua Moitra has raised strong objections to the detention of 23 workers from her constituency in Jharsuguda district, Odisha, warning of legal action and demanding immediate release of the workers.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Moitra, known for her outspoken stance, claimed that 440 workers were detained in total, including 23 from her Nadia constituency in West Bengal. "These individuals possess valid documentation, including Aadhaar cards. India is a union of states, and every citizen has the right to live and work anywhere within the country," she said.

She warned of filing 23 habeas corpus petitions if the detainees were not released promptly. Taking aim at the Odisha government, she added, "This kind of harassment never occurred during the 24 years of BJD rule." But under the current BJP dispensation, it has become a routine affair. Moitra also suggested that such actions could impact Odisha's tourism revenue, a significant portion (50%) of which comes from West Bengal visitors.

In response, Inspector General of Police (Northern Range) Himanshu Lal assured that the verification process was being conducted with utmost care. "We understand the concerns raised. A thorough and humane verification process is underway to safeguard national security without compromising individual rights," he said.

Lal explained that a total of 448 individuals suspected of being illegal Bangladeshi or Rohingya immigrants had been detained since Monday night as part of a statewide crackdown. Of these, 444 were held in Jharsuguda, many of whom had been working in local industries and construction.