Assam Tea garden workers raise long-pending grievances ahead of Lok Sabha elections

Digital Desk: Tea garden workers in Assam's Sonitpur Lok Sabha constituency, nestled within the Biswanath district, are raising their voices to address long-standing grievances. Situated in the heart of India's tea-producing region, these workers form a significant portion of the electorate, yet their plight often remains overlooked by policymakers.

With over 16.25 lakh eligible voters in Sonitpur Lok Sabha constituency spread across nine assembly segments, the tea garden regions play a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes. However, for many like Rina Tosa, a widow and mother of three girls employed in the Shakomato tea garden, the promises made by political parties during election campaigns often ring hollow.

Rina, earning a meager Rs 1310 per week, expresses frustration over the lack of government support despite applying for various welfare schemes. "During the election, political parties make many promises, but after the election, they forget everything," she laments, highlighting the disconnect between campaign rhetoric and post-election reality.

Bhanu Goala, another tea garden worker, echoes Rina's sentiments, emphasizing the struggle of surviving on meager wages amid rising living costs. Despite assurances from political parties to increase wages, the ground reality remains unchanged. "We demand an increase in our daily wage to Rs 600," Bhanu asserts, underscoring the persistent cycle of unmet promises and stagnant living standards.

Manju Munda, also employed in the Shakomato tea garden, sheds light on the daily struggles faced by workers due to insufficient wages and the soaring prices of essential commodities. "How can we live with this wage?" she questions, urging the government to address their plight and improve living conditions.

As Assam braces for voting in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, slated to be held in three phases starting April 19, the Sonitpur constituency will participate in the initial phase alongside other key regions. However, amidst the electoral fervor, the voices of tea garden workers must not be drowned out.

The upcoming elections, spanning seven phases and culminating in the counting process scheduled for June 4, represent a critical juncture for both policymakers and voters. Political parties must move beyond token promises and prioritize the welfare of marginalized communities like tea garden workers.

The plight of Assam's tea garden workers underscores the urgent need for meaningful government intervention to address systemic challenges and improve living standards. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, they do so with the hope of electing representatives who will prioritize their interests and deliver on their promises beyond the campaign trail.