The deaths of four young migrant workers from Assam in Bengaluru have sent shockwaves through Guwahati and the state, raising serious concerns over migrant safety, living conditions, and labour welfare outside Assam.
Responding to the incident, Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday termed the deaths “deeply unfortunate” and ordered immediate coordination between Assam Police and Karnataka Police to ensure a thorough investigation.
Four migrant workers from Assam were found dead inside a locked rented room in Bengaluru, prompting the Assam government to order a probe. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that the bodies would be brought back to Assam with dignity, while police investigate possible suffocation due to poor ventilation.
What Happened in Bengaluru
The four youths were found dead inside a locked rented accommodation at Mutsandra village in Hoskote taluk, on the outskirts of Bengaluru.
The deceased has been identified as:
- Jayanta Sinte Khageswar (25)
- Narendranath Taid (24)
- Doctor Taid (25)
- Dhananjay Taid (20)
All four were employed at a Coca-Cola warehouse and lived together close to their workplace.
Initial Findings and Ongoing Investigation
According to preliminary police inputs, the workers may have died of suffocation while asleep, possibly due to toxic fumes or oxygen depletion after cooking inside a poorly ventilated room with doors and windows shut.
However, Karnataka Police have stressed that:
- The exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the post-mortem reports
- No external injuries were found on the bodies
- All angles, including possible negligence or foul play, are being investigated
A formal case has been registered, and post-mortem examinations are currently underway.
Assam Government Steps In
Reacting strongly, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said the Assam government would ensure:
- Dignified repatriation of mortal remains to Assam
- Full coordination between Assam Police and Bengaluru Police
- Direct communication with the Karnataka Chief Minister on the matter
State officials said arrangements are being made to assist the families and monitor the investigation closely.
Why This Hits Home in Guwahati
Thousands of young people from Guwahati and Assam migrate to cities like Bengaluru for work in warehouses, factories, and service sectors.
The incident has reignited long-standing concerns in the city over:
- Unsafe and overcrowded migrant housing
- Lack of monitoring of employer-provided accommodations
- Limited awareness of safety norms among young workers
Labour activists in Guwahati say such deaths underline the need for inter-state labour protection mechanisms and stronger oversight.
Families Seek Answers
Families of the deceased have reportedly raised questions and suspicions, urging authorities not to rule out any possibility prematurely.
Police said these concerns are being taken seriously and will form part of the investigation.
What Happens Next
- Post-mortem reports are awaited
- Police will examine living conditions and workplace responsibility
- Assam government officials will continue coordination with Karnataka
The findings are expected to influence how migrant worker safety is addressed in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where were the Assam migrant workers found dead?
They were found inside a locked rented room at Mutsandra village in Hoskote taluk near Bengaluru.
Q2. What is the suspected cause of death?
Preliminary inputs suggest possible suffocation due to poor ventilation, but the final cause will be confirmed after post-mortem reports.
