Thiruvananthapuram: Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s ‘offer’ is unlikely to be accepted by Bengali workers in Kerala. It is assessed that Bengalis will not abandon their secure jobs with good wages to return home. Meanwhile, Binoy Peter, executive director of the Centre for Migration and Inclusive Development (CMID), told Mathrubhumi that some areas have experienced lawlessness due to fear caused by hate campaigns labelling them as Bangladeshis.

Wages in Kerala remain the primary attraction. A significant portion of Bengali workers are employed in labour-intensive construction work—15.7 per cent. About 13.22 per cent work in carpentry and furniture manufacturing. From hotels and restaurants to jewellery manufacturing, the presence of Bengalis is considerable.

Average wages range from ₹800 to ₹900, with skilled workers earning up to ₹1,200. Those with expertise can earn at least ₹1,000, with wages varying according to the nature of the work.

According to the 2011 census, nine of the 10 districts in India with the highest Scheduled Caste populations are in Bengal. Among these, a large number of Bengalis working in Kerala come from South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, Bardhaman, Nadia and Jalpaiguri districts. The Planning Board report highlights that nearly half of the Bengali workers belong to the Muslim community. In the plywood sector of Perumbavoor, Ernakulam, many workers hail from Murshidabad, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar and Nadia districts. Workers from South 24 Parganas, traditionally a Hindu fishing community, are also found employed along Kerala’s coastal areas.

Mamata’s offer

It is estimated that 2.2 million Bengalis have migrated to states including Kerala. The response to Mamata’s call is thought to be influenced by voter list deletions in states such as Bihar. Kerala reportedly hosts 3.5 million migrant workers, of whom Bengalis make up about 41 per cent.

Support for those returning

  • ₹5,000 monthly allowance until employment is secured, for up to one year
  • Free education for children
  • Food security for the family
  • Benefits under health schemes