Hooda Promises Migrant Welfare Board in Haryana

In a strategic move ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda has made a significant promise to the state's migrant population. Speaking at the Bhojpuri Awadhi Samaj Pravasi Sammelan, Hooda pledged to set up a dedicated welfare board for migrant workers if the Congress party comes to power.

Recognizing Migrant Contributions

Hooda highlighted the indispensable role played by migrant workers in building Haryana's economy over the past decades. He emphasized their contributions, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR), stating, "Migrants have contributed to building Haryana with their hard work and played an important role in the development of industry and increase in investment." 

The former CM pointed out that many factories have come to the state due to the availability of skilled migrant labor, underlining that their role in the state's economic growth cannot be overlooked.

Promises of Equal Treatment 

Hooda stressed the need for treating migrant workers on par with other residents of Haryana. He cited examples of migrant success in local politics, mentioning that the current MLA from NIT, Neeraj Sharma, and the city's first Mayor both belonged to the migrant category.

"The migrants who had settled here or had been a vital part of the economy also deserved treatment at par with other residents," Hooda asserted.

Criticism of Current Government

Taking a swipe at the ruling BJP government, Hooda accused them of neglecting and even harming the interests of migrant workers. He claimed, "The BJP government razed around 10,000 houses of poor people who were mainly migrants from UP and Bihar, resulting in severe victimization."

This statement was in stark contrast to his description of Congress's past initiatives, which he said included housing facilities for migrants during their rule. 

The Promise of a Welfare Board

The cornerstone of Hooda's address was the promise to establish a welfare board for migrant workers. He explained, "There is an urgent need for measures like a board to keep watch on the interests of thousands of migrant workers and employees engaged in building up the economy of the state for the past many decades."

This proposed board would likely oversee various aspects of migrant welfare, including housing, healthcare, and labor rights.

Political Implications

Hooda's promise could potentially sway a significant portion of Haryana's electorate. With a large migrant population contributing to various sectors of the state's economy, this pledge might resonate with many voters.

However, HPCC Chief Udai Bhan cautioned the audience against being misled by "false promises and temptations offered by the BJP government just ahead of the poll," indicating that the coming election campaign might see a heated debate over migrant welfare issues.