An older injustice (The troubles of migrants have become visible now, but existed always)

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 An older injustice (The troubles of migrants have become visible now, but existed always)

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• Migrants in trouble: Ever since India enforced a huge lockdown on March 25, lakhs of migrant workers across the country have been in distress. The daily wagers have lost all means of livelihood, and are struggling for sheer survival. Migrant workers usually come from the poorest regions of India, seeking work in better parts.
• Illegal immigrants: Right before Feb 2020, the issue of illegal immigrants was the burning topic, with mass protests across India. The CAA 2019 was about granting citizenship to migrants from 3 neighbouring nations, from all but one religion. Suddenly, the debate is now about welfare of Indian migrants themselves!
• The real story: Nothing has changed really, and the migrants have been treated like this always, in India. Apathy of governments is the norm, not the exception.
• Localites versus Migrants: For many decades now, the local politics has been geared to be against the interests of migrant workers. Examples - the 1960s' Marathi Manoos movement in Mumbai, and the 2012 exodus of North Eastern people from Bengaluru. Migrants never fulfil all conditions to be included in local society - caste, religion, region!
• Not the govt's fault alone: The government is only reflecting social attitudes towards migrants. Research showed that many police personnel felt that migrants were naturally prone to committing crimes. The people also think the same way. The discrimination builds around this attitude.
• Figures from 2001 Census: There were 4.1 crore migrants from other states, in India. But that's quite low compared to other countries. If we compare from 2000 to 2010 for internal migration, India ranks at lowest rung in 80 countries! So there is a conscious problem in India that restricts migration, though worldwide countries are benefited by it.
• Comparing states: Some states receive the highest number of migrants in India. Among them, on a mix of parameters, Kerala ranked best and Delhi the worst. If we compare intra- and inter-state migration also, then inter- is very less compared to intra-, proving the assertion that discrimination is higher.
• Apathy all around: These migrants are extremely crucial for the working of our cities, but we treat them with apathy when they come, and also when they want to leave. As of now, many are walking long distances, and dying on the roads.
• Summary : Migration within India is much lower compared to other nations, showing some structural issues with society and the state.

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