Odisha Reports 518 Migrant Worker Deaths in Five Years

Odisha has recorded a staggering 518 deaths of migrant workers over the past five years, according to a written reply presented in the Assembly by Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia.

The district-wise breakdown reveals that Kalahandi reported the highest number with 60 deaths, followed by Ganjam (56), Balangir (38), Kandhamal (34), Nabarangpur (35), and Rayagada (34).

Authorities confirmed that many of these workers lost their lives while employed outside the state and even abroad.

Out of the total fatalities, 395 bodies were handed over to families after completion of formalities, highlighting the immense emotional and logistical challenges faced by bereaved households.

The figures underscore the vulnerability of Odisha’s migrant workforce, who often seek employment in distant regions under difficult conditions.

The issue has sparked renewed calls for stronger labour protections, welfare measures, and monitoring of migrant worker safety.