Concerns Rise Over Safety of Assam Migrant Workers Following Tragic Death in Bengaluru

The recent death of Sanjoy Bhowmik, a 32-year-old migrant worker from Assam, in Bengaluru has raised serious concerns about the safety of workers from the state employed outside their home region. Found dead at his workplace on International Workers’ Day, allegations of foul play have emerged, prompting demands for a thorough investigation. This incident adds to a troubling pattern of fatalities among Assamese migrants, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and support for those seeking employment in other states. The Assam government has previously initiated programs to address these issues, but the ongoing tragedies continue to spark anxiety among families and communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 17:53 IST

Tragic Incident Raises Alarm

File image of the deceased, Sanjoy Bhowmik. (AT Photo)

North Lakhimpur, May 2: A 32-year-old migrant worker from Lakhimpur district in Assam was discovered deceased at his workplace in Bengaluru on May 1, raising significant concerns regarding the safety of workers from the state employed outside their home region.

The individual has been identified as Sanjoy Bhowmik, who resided in No. 2 Phulbari village under the Dolahat Police Outpost in Lakhimpur.

Family members reported that Bhowmik was found near a machine at SB Industries, a manufacturer of industrial adhesive tapes in Bengaluru, on International Workers’ Day. They were alerted to the situation by a colleague who also provided a photograph from the scene. Allegations of foul play have emerged, as the factory was reportedly closed for the holiday.

“We observed cut marks on his neck and ear, along with blood in the photograph. We firmly believe he was murdered,” his father stated.

Bhowmik had returned home about two months ago for his wedding before heading back to Bengaluru.

His family is demanding a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of his death and is seeking assistance from authorities for the repatriation of his body.

This incident has once again highlighted the precarious situation faced by migrant workers from Assam in other states.

Earlier this year, another tragic case involved the body of Ilias Shamim from Fatehpur, which was found in Ziro. Additionally, Kiran Handique, a 23-year-old from Handique village in Dhalpur, died while working in an iron factory in Manipur on January 8. Another youth, Utpal Handique, has been missing since early January after traveling by train to Bengaluru.

The series of incidents has sparked anger and concern in Lakhimpur, where many young individuals migrate to other states in search of employment opportunities.

This latest death follows a disturbing pattern, as just three months ago, four migrant workers from the district were found dead under mysterious circumstances in Bengaluru. On January 30, these workers, employed at a beverage warehouse, were discovered deceased in their living quarters.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding this recent case.

The situation has gained renewed attention as Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed ongoing concerns about the increasing fatalities among Assamese youths working outside the state.

In response to these tragedies, the Assam government launched the “Shraddhanjali” scheme in October 2025, aimed at ensuring a dignified return for individuals from Assam who pass away outside the state. This initiative was prompted by the deaths of nine migrant workers in an accident at a construction site in Chennai.