Protest Rally and Deputation by SDPI at Odisha Bhavan Against Atrocities on Bengali Workers in Odisha
Kolkata, 18 July 2025

In strong protest against the continued harassment, false accusations, and illegal pushbacks of Bengali migrant workers from Odisha to Bangladesh, the Social Democratic Party of India organized a massive demonstration in Kolkata today. The protest march began from the Sealdah station area and concluded in front of Odisha Bhavan, where a sit-in demonstration and street meeting were also held.

SDPI raised key demands, including: an immediate end to the illegal pushbacks, cessation of branding Bengalis as Bangladeshis, and protection of the constitutional rights of all migrant workers.

Addressing the gathering, SDPI West Bengal State Secretary Masudul Islam stated that under the BJP-ruled Odisha government, Bengali-speaking workers—particularly Muslims—are facing systematic harassment, racial discrimination, and inhumane treatment. Despite possessing valid identity documents like Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, and even land deeds, they are being forcibly deported to Bangladesh simply because of their Bengali identity. He described this as a gross violation of the Constitution and basic human rights.

A Six-member SDPI delegation entered Odisha Bhavan to submit a written deputation and engage in dialogue with state officials. The delegation included State President Hakikul Islam, General Secretary Dr. Kamal Basiruzzaman, Organizing Secretary Suman Mondal, Secretary Masudul Islam, Treasurer Md Aftab alam and South Murshidabad District President Abdul Karim Mondal.

After more than an hour and a half of discussion, the delegation addressed the media. SDPI State President Hakikul Islam clearly stated that they did not come merely to submit a memorandum, but to demand an end to the atrocities against Bengali migrant workers in Odisha. He shared that, when he questioned the Odisha representative about the harassment, the official failed to give a direct response. Later, higher authorities were contacted, and eventually, a conversation was arranged with the Odisha Home Secretary. During the exchange, the Home Secretary admitted that such incidents had occurred but was unable to provide any details about what steps had been taken to address the issue.

The SDPI delegation insisted that the Odisha government provide a written assurance and issue a public press statement acknowledging the problem and outlining immediate action. Following a lengthy discussion, the Odisha Home Secretary gave a written commitment that necessary measures would be taken within 15 days. Additionally, the SDPI delegation raised the issue that Odisha Bhavan in West Bengal lacks signage in the Bengali language, which the Home Secretary promised to rectify within 20 days.

Speaking to the media, State President Hakikul Islam declared, “This protest is just the beginning. We demand prompt and effective action from the Odisha government. If the harassment of Bengali workers is not stopped and no concrete measures are taken within the next 15 days, SDPI will launch a stronger agitation and gherao Odisha Bhavan again.”