New Delhi: In a tragic incident, a 27-year-old migrant worker from Giridih in Jharkhand was shot down after allegedly being caught in a shootout between police and criminals in Saudi Arabia four months ago.
The deceased, Vijay Kumar Mahto, was working on a power transmission project in Saudi Arabia, and after 120 days, the authorities sent his body to India. Vijay was shot dead on October 15 while on a delivery assignment.
A gunshot broke out between police and criminals when Vijay was on delivery; he later succumbed to his injuries. Vijay’s body reached Ranchi airport months later, but his family members refused to receive the body.
Grief and anger were triggered among his family and villagers in Dumri block, demanding clarity on compensation and accountability from the employer.
Vijay was the sole earner in his family, as he had a wife and two young sons aged seven and five. His wife spoke to Aaj Tak and said Vijay had gone abroad in 2023 for work through a private contractor and had returned home once before rejoining duty on December 31, 2024.
Vijay Kumar Mahto’s father’s reaction
The deceased’s father, Surya Narayan Mahto, alleged that the employer has not contacted the family since the death of his son. The family is demanding compensation before accepting Vijay’s body.
Giridh Deputy Commissioner Ramnivas Yadav confirmed that the families of the deceased are eligible for Rs 5 lakh aid if they submit an application under the government scheme. Additionally, the compensation from the employer would depend on the company and the UAE Consulate General.
Workers from Jharkhand frequently migrate to Gulf countries in search of work, as they lack jobs in their native country. An outrage occurred among villagers and local leaders, warning that protests would be held if adequate compensation and support were not given to the bereaved family.