India Migrant Crisis: Nation Watches as Millions Forced to Stay Home Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
Mumbai, September 1st: With rising cases of COVID-19 in India, the government has urged citizens to stay home and avoid any non-essential outings, a measure that has left many migrant workers and laborers struggling to cope with their confinement.
As India continues to grapple with an unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an extended lockdown to contain the spread of the virus. The move has sparked widespread panic among migrants who rely on daily wages for survival.
In a desperate bid to stay afloat, many migrant workers have been seen attempting suicide or committing other forms of self-harm as they await government relief packages that promised financial assistance during times of crisis.
"We're terrified," said Rohan, a 30-year-old migrant worker. "If we don't receive any respite from the government, I fear for my life and the lives of my family."
Government officials have assured all concerned that the situation will be resolved soon, but migrant workers express hopelessness in their plight.
As India goes into lockdown once again, citizens are being advised to stay home, limit contact with others, and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. With millions forced to stay indoors, our team of dedicated editors/reporters brings you the latest updates on this developing crisis.