Jharkhand Migrants Stranded in Cameroon Set to Return Home on Tuesday
Five Jharkhand Migrants Stranded in Cameroon Set to Return Home
Ranchi, November 29, 2025 — In a heartening turn of events, five migrant workers from Jharkhand, who found themselves stranded in Cameroon due to unpaid salaries, are scheduled to return home on Tuesday. The workers, employed by a Mumbai-based multinational company for transmission line projects, faced dire financial challenges after not receiving their wages for five months.
The plight of these workers came to light thanks to social activist Sikander Ali, who raised the issue with the Jharkhand Labour Department. Following his intervention, the Indian Embassy in Cameroon stepped in, facilitating communication with local authorities and ensuring the release of the workers’ pending salaries.
Shikha Lakra, the team leader of the State Migrant Control Room, confirmed the successful resolution of the situation. "We coordinated with the Indian Embassy and shared all necessary documentation. Thanks to their efforts, the workers’ salaries have been cleared, and their flight tickets are booked for return to Mumbai," Lakra stated.
The workers, identified as Sunil Mahato, Sukar Mahato, Chandrashekhar Kumar, Dilon Mahato, and Dilchand Mahato, expressed relief and gratitude for the government’s intervention. They had previously shared a video detailing their struggles, which highlighted the challenges of securing food and accommodation without income.
Upon their arrival in Mumbai, the workers will make their way back to their hometowns in Hazaribagh and Giridih districts via train, at their own expense. The families of the stranded workers have been anxiously awaiting their return, relieved that the ordeal is finally coming to an end.
Sikander Ali emphasized the emotional toll this situation had taken on the workers and their families, stating, "They have endured sleepless nights worrying about their future. Now, they can finally return home and reunite with their loved ones."
As the workers prepare for their journey back, this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many migrant laborers and the importance of advocacy and support in ensuring their rights and well-being.
