The Bihar assembly election is drawing attention to issues linked to Punjab, particularly the 25 to 30 lakh migrant workers from Bihar who toil in Punjab's fields and factories. These workers form the backbone of Punjab's economy yet often face political targeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised this matter during a rally in Chhapra on October 30, criticising Congress and its former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi. Modi quoted Channi's 2022 election rally statement where he allegedly said Biharis should not be allowed to enter Punjab, calling it an insult to the people of Bihar. Channi later clarified his remarks were misrepresented. The first phase of voting is scheduled for November 6, covering 121 seats. The BJP is using Punjab-related issues as a campaign strategy, while Congress has adjusted its star campaigner list. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other AAP leaders are also part of the campaign. The Chhath festival witnessed special efforts by all parties to woo Bihar voters residing in Punjab.
Political Controversy Over Migrant Workers
Prime Minister Modi accused Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi of insulting Bihari migrants during a rally in Chhapra. He referred to Channi's controversial statement made in Ropar in 2022 during Punjab elections, where Channi allegedly urged Punjabis not to let people from UP and Bihar enter Punjab. Priyanka Gandhi was present at that rally. Modi termed this an insult by the INDIA alliance towards Biharis. Following the backlash, Channi defended himself on social media, claiming his statement was twisted. Reports suggest Congress removed Channi from its star campaigner list for Bihar's second phase. Modi also raised the 1984 Sikh riots issue during his November 2 campaign, accusing Congress of hypocrisy on tolerance.
Struggles of Bihar Migrants in Punjab
A 2022 research study by professors at Punjabi University Patiala examined the lives of 1,567 migrant workers from Bihar in Punjab. The study revealed harsh realities: over 58% earn less than ₹8,000 monthly despite working day and night. Only 18.39% receive one weekly off, and merely 5.55% have EPF contributions. These workers are crucial to Punjab's agriculture and industries, yet face poor working conditions and limited social security. Political parties attempted to connect with these voters during Chhath Puja from October 25-28, organizing special trains and attending community gatherings. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann remarked that if the Prime Minister gives time, he would meet him even in Bihar, where Modi is busy campaigning.
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