The devastating fire at a Goa nightclub that claimed 25 lives has brought into sharp focus the issue of economic migration from Assam, where limited job opportunities force many to seek work in other states. Among the victims were three men from Assam: Diganta Patir from Dhemaji district, and Manjit Mal and Rahul Tanti, both from Cachar district. Their families are now grappling with the dual tragedy of loss and the stark reality of unemployment in their home state.
Diganta Patir, a 22-year-old chef, had moved to Goa a year ago to support his financially struggling family. His family, who live in Dhemaji, Assam, were devastated by the news, and are struggling to bring his body home. Manjit Mal, 24, from Silcoorie Grant in Cachar, had been working as a cook in Goa for about 18 months and was the sole earning member of his family. He had recently visited home to help arrange his younger sister's marriage. Rahul Tanti, 32, also from Cachar, worked in Goa with his two brothers. His wife, Sukriti Tanti, is now left to raise their two daughters and two-month-old son alone.
The families of Manjit Mal and Rahul Tanti have alleged that their sons were compelled to migrate due to the lack of jobs in Assam. Villagers say that the tea gardens in Barak Valley are in poor condition, leaving them no choice but to seek employment elsewhere. Diganta Patir's mother also stated that her sons were working in faraway states because there were no opportunities in Dhemaji, a district prone to floods and erosion.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his condolences and assured assistance to the bereaved families. He mentioned the 'Shraddhanjali' scheme, which covers the cost of transporting the bodies of Assamese residents who die in other states. Authorities in Assam are coordinating with their counterparts in Goa to facilitate the transportation of the bodies. Tickets have been arranged, and the bodies are expected to arrive in Assam soon. The government is also trying to provide financial aid to the families.
The incident has sparked outrage and grief, with many questioning the safety standards at the nightclub and the circumstances that led to the workers being trapped. Preliminary investigations suggest that many of the victims in the kitchen suffocated as smoke filled the basement, leaving them with no means of escape. Families are asking why no one came to help the trapped men.
The Goa police have arrested four people in connection with the fire and have issued a lookout notice for the absconding owners of the nightclub. The government has intensified its crackdown on the nightclub chain, amid allegations that the license was granted without the required documentation.
This tragedy highlights the urgent need for job creation and economic development in Assam to prevent further loss of life and to provide opportunities for its residents within their home state. The lack of local opportunities is forcing young people to migrate to other states, often taking on risky jobs in unsafe conditions. The Assam government needs to address this issue to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
