Safe Migration Awareness Programme Empowers Vulnerable Communities in Jharkhand

Daltonganj, Jharkhand, January 20, 2026 – Responding to the growing cry of migrant communities vulnerable to exploitation, a two-day awareness workshop on Safe Migration and the Prevention of Bonded Labour and Human Trafficking was successfully conducted in Jharkhand—on January 18 at St. Anthony Mary Claret Church, Barwadih (Daltonganj), and on January 19 at St. Theresa Middle School, Morwai.

Organised by the CCBI Commission for Migrants, in collaboration with the Claretian Mission at Daltonganj, the programme was a concrete step towards safeguarding human dignity and promoting informed migration.

Jharkhand continues to be one of the states most affected by unsafe migration. A large number of people, driven by poverty and the lack of local opportunities, are trafficked by illegal agencies or forced into bonded labour in metropolitan cities, the agricultural fields of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, and in brick kilns across various states. Many such stories remain unheard until platforms like this workshop create space for truth, healing, and empowerment.

The sessions were led with sensitivity and depth by Mr. Nirmal Gorana, Human Rights Activist – National Campaign Committee for Eradication of Bonded Labour; Adv. Sr. Rani Punnasseril, HCM; and Adv. Fr. Siby, CMF. They addressed complex issues with clarity, compassion, and legal insight through real-life examples and interactive discussions.

Nearly 400 participants attended the workshops, with more than half being migrants currently working in Chandigarh, Bengaluru, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The sessions became a safe space where many courageously shared their painful experiences of exploitation, harassment, unpaid wages, and loss of dignity. Participants expressed deep gratitude, stating that had they been aware of these laws earlier, many instances of suffering—and even deaths—could have been prevented.

One young woman, Ms. Monica (name changed), who had returned to her village for her engagement, shared how she was harassed simply for asking for leave and was not paid her final salary. Her sister, who was working with her in Chandigarh, was denied leave altogether, forcing her to quit her job. Ms. Monica now hopes to return with greater awareness and find an employer who respects her rights. Her story echoed the countless silent testimonies of injustice that demand urgent response.

The Claretian Catholic Ashram at Daltonganj continues to play a vital role in empowering migrants and families left behind, nurturing awareness, resilience, and hope. Through initiatives like this, the Church stands as a compassionate companion, walking with the poor, the exploited, and the forgotten.

By Sr. Rani