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| Migrant worker Sukhen Mahato from Purulia killed in Pune, political controversy erupts as leaders react. |
Pune/Kolkata | February 14, 2026
The death of a 24-year-old migrant worker from West Bengal’s Purulia district in Maharashtra’s Pune has sparked a political controversy, with conflicting claims over the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Sukhen Mahato, a resident of Bandwan in the Barabazar area of Purulia, had been working in Pune for the past four years along with his four brothers. Employed at a company linked to Tata Motors, Mahato was reportedly engaged in motor assembly work. His body was discovered earlier this week near a roadside close to the industrial area where he worked.
Police Version: Drunken Altercation
Pune Police have stated that preliminary investigations indicate the death resulted from a drunken altercation. According to officials, Mahato was allegedly involved in a dispute with acquaintances following alcohol consumption, which escalated into violence.
Law enforcement authorities have said that they are examining CCTV footage, questioning witnesses, and conducting forensic analysis to establish the sequence of events. Officials have maintained that, based on initial findings, there is no evidence at this stage to suggest a targeted attack based on linguistic or regional identity.
Police sources have also indicated that some suspects have been identified and are being questioned. However, a detailed official statement outlining the exact cause of death is awaited pending post-mortem findings and further investigation.
TMC Disputes Police Claim
The explanation offered by Maharashtra Police has been strongly contested by West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Party leaders have alleged that the killing may have been motivated by bias related to Mahato’s linguistic and regional identity.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed the issue on social media, asserting that the young worker had been “tortured and killed for his language, identity and roots.” She assured Mahato’s family that her government would take all necessary steps to ensure justice and extend support.
TMC representatives have demanded a thorough and transparent investigation, urging both state and central authorities to ensure accountability if any hate-driven elements are found to be involved.
Family’s Grief and Demand for Justice
Mahato’s family in Purulia has expressed shock and grief over his sudden death. According to relatives, he had been regularly sending money home and was considered the primary breadwinner supporting the household.
Local residents in Bandwan have gathered to express solidarity with the family, and there have been calls for a detailed probe to uncover the truth behind the incident.
Community leaders have appealed for calm while emphasizing the need for clarity and justice.
Political Reactions
The incident has intensified political tensions between West Bengal and Maharashtra leadership. Opposition leaders in West Bengal have accused the TMC government of politicizing a tragic event, while TMC leaders argue that protecting migrant workers’ rights and dignity is a legitimate concern.
The case has also reignited debate around the safety and working conditions of migrant laborers who relocate across states in search of employment.
Broader Context: Migrant Worker Safety
India witnesses significant interstate migration for industrial and manufacturing jobs. Workers from eastern states, including West Bengal, often travel to western and southern industrial hubs.
Incidents involving migrant workers frequently raise questions about:
- Workplace safety
- Social integration
- Linguistic and cultural tensions
- Access to legal support
- Timely police action
Rights activists argue that regardless of the motive, the case highlights the vulnerability of migrant laborers and underscores the importance of robust protections.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities in Pune have reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and have appealed to political leaders to refrain from drawing conclusions before forensic and evidentiary findings are complete.
As the probe continues, both governments are under pressure to ensure transparency and maintain law and order.
The tragic death of Sukhen Mahato has not only left a family devastated but has also become a flashpoint in an increasingly polarized political environment.
