Migrant workers are suffering the most due to the novel pandemic coronavirus, which has placed the entire country under lockdown; with no work and no means to support themselves, a lot of them are struggling to make ends meet.
This led to the workers heading back to their hometowns and villages but since there was no availability of public transport, they began their journey on foot. Better late than never, the government finally decided to wake up and arrange special trains for them in order to make sure they get to their destinations.
However, even now?lack of resources?and food, is a problem that persists.? A?video that has surfaced on social media, shows people fighting over food packets, at a railway station in Bihar.
Based on the video that was shared by journalist Narendra Nath Mishra, the heartbreaking incident took place in Bihar's Katihar district. Katihar is situated just 300 km from Bihar's capital Patna.
The migrant workers were reportedly present at the station to board a special train when the incident occurred. The devastating video has made people question the railways' claims on making sure social distancing rules are followed since it is abundantly transparent that it did not happen.?
It is the railway authorities' responsibility to ensure that the special migrant trains follow the protocol and passengers practice a safe distance from each other.
According to an NDTV ?report, the incident happened when the train which was en route Purnia, arrived at Katihar Junction from Delhi. Shubanan Chandra, the spokesperson of Northern Frontier Railways told the news publication,?"Lunch was being distributed at Katihar. Only one person distributes food per coach. As it was taking time, some lost their patience and pounced on the food. It is very sad. We appeal to people, these are difficult times, they must be patient."
Even though this is a one-time incident, it raises a lot of concerns over the fact that the Railways promised that adequate food and water will be arranged for the migrants who will board the train.
Migrant workers are the worst hit by nationwide lockdown that has led to many of them losing their livelihood, and even lives.?
*Disclaimer: Indiatimes can’t establish the veracity of the video. Story will be update once more information is available.