Beedi Workers in Murshidabad Face Crisis Amid Political Promises
Murshidabad’s forgotten crisis: Beedi workers struggle amid charged political debates, SIR deletions
The Economic Times
Image: The Economic Times
In Murshidabad, West Bengal, beedi workers, including many children, struggle with low wages and exploitation as political parties focus on other issues ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Despite their critical role in the local economy, their plight is overshadowed by political debates on identity and infiltration.
- 01Murshidabad is a major hub for beedi production, employing many children and women.
- 02Beedi workers earn between ₹160 and ₹180 for every 1,000 beedis rolled, leading to severe economic strain.
- 03Political contractors influence workers' livelihoods, often dictating their voting choices.
- 04Recent protests led to a wage increase from ₹165 to ₹190 per 1,000 beedis.
- 05The exploitation of beedi workers is a longstanding issue, exacerbated by political neglect.
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In Murshidabad district, West Bengal, the beedi industry employs thousands, including many children, who help their families meet production targets. Workers earn between ₹160 and ₹180 for every 1,000 beedis rolled, which is insufficient for a family’s survival. Political parties are campaigning on issues like infiltration and identity, neglecting the dire conditions faced by these workers. Many children, such as 12-year-old Ruksana Khatun, work instead of attending school, while women suffer from health issues due to prolonged exposure to tobacco dust. Recent protests led by beedi workers resulted in a wage increase from ₹165 to ₹190 per 1,000 beedis. However, the local contractor network maintains significant control over workers' livelihoods, often dictating political affiliations and suppressing dissent. As the elections approach, the pressing concerns of these workers remain largely unaddressed, highlighting a critical gap in political discourse.
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The ongoing exploitation of beedi workers affects their economic stability and health, leading to a cycle of poverty and limited educational opportunities for children.
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