Old Photos: Minister On Reports Of Workers' Mass Exodus During 3rd Wave

So far, there is no report of unusual movement of migrant workers owing to the restrictions imposed by state/UT governments, the minister told Parliament.

Media reports about mass exodus of migrant workers amid the third wave of the pandemic were untrue and states have been asked to be wary of rumour mongering on this issue, Parliament was informed on Thursday.

The third wave hit the country last month, forcing states to impose local restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19. Some states have imposed night as well as weekend curfews along with restrictions like on dining in bars and restaurants.

"21 monitoring centers have been activated across the country by office of Chief Labour Commissioner (Central). The states have also been asked to be wary of rumour mongering on exodus and take quick steps to counter such rumours. They have been advised to reassure migrant workers regarding their safety, security and livelihood," Union Labour Minister Bhupender Yadav said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

The minister told the House that some media reports of mass exodus regarding movement of migrant workers to their home states were found to be untrue and it was also noticed that some of the news items were based on old photographs.