Ankita

Tiktok Twitter Linkedin-in Instagram
Join Us

Our Story&Blog

Protecting Migrant Workers at a Scale

On November 5, 2024, a distressing phone call was received from Sawanu Lal Samdaria, a resident of Jilang village, regarding his 16-year-old daughter, Sangeeta, who had left for Kerala on July 15, 2024, to work as a cardamom plucker.

While working in Kerala, Sangeeta, along with other migrant workers including:

  • Umesh Kumar (17)
  • Mahesh (28)
  • Lamto Bai (24)
  • Santosh Kumar (30)
  • Itwariya Bai (28)
  • Rambhagat Yadav (45)
  • Manavti (41)
was lured into an even more dangerous situation by a man named Vijay, who promised them better work and higher wages in Andhra Pradesh.

The Reality in Andhra Pradesh

Vijay assured the workers that they would be employed in a fish farming operation in Angol, Prakasam district, with a promise of ₹15,000 per person per month.

However, upon arrival:

  • They were transferred to Gundapalam.
  • Forced into grueling work under harsh conditions.
  • Locked in at night with no freedom of movement.
  • Suffered physical abuse, especially when ill or uncooperative.
  • Their phones were confiscated, cutting all contact with their families.

The Daring Escape

On October 2, 2024, four workers—including Mahesh, Lamto Bai, Santosh, and Itwariya—attempted to escape but were discovered by the supervisor after hiding in a thorny bush, enduring painful injuries in the process. Despite this, the workers managed to escape and made their way to Nagpur, where they worked on a construction site before returning home on October 24, 2024.

Rescue and Reintegration

When the families learned of the distressing conditions their loved ones had faced, they grew alarmed as communication had been severed. The workers had been subjected to threats, physical violence, and exploitation. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the families reached out for support to ensure the workers’ safe return.

ANKITA, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, stepped in to protect the workers and ensure their rights were safeguarded. The swift action taken ensured the workers were brought home safely, and their grievances were addressed, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance in safeguarding the rights of migrant workers across the region.

ANKITA has successfully identified and empowered around 300 communities across Telangana, focusing on building resilience and promoting sustainable development. Through targeted initiatives in both urban and rural areas, we have provided essential resources, knowledge, and support to help these communities overcome challenges and access vital government services. By raising awareness on labour rights, social security benefits, and safe migration practices, we have equipped these communities with the tools to improve their livelihoods, safeguard their rights, and build a stronger, more self-sufficient future. This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of community mobilisation in creating lasting change

Articles on social impact

Articles on social impact​

A Triumph for Justice: Resolving Labor Payment Disputes

In December 2024, the Jansahas and Ankita Foundations received a distress call (Case No. 75228) from ten laborers in Nalgonda and Warangal. These workers, who toiled at a Banjarahills construction site in October, faced severe financial hardship due to non-payment of their wages, totaling ₹2,20,000. Having spent their own money on food and essentials without any advance from the contractor, they were left stranded when the contractor ignored their payment requests and, at times, resorted to abusive behavior.

Upon learning of their plight through our helpline, our team—comprising district coordinators and field officers—sprang into action. We met the laborers, listened to their grievances, and collected a formal complaint. Our team then confronted the contractor, highlighting our NGOs’ mission and the workers’ struggles. Initially resistant, the contractor refused to settle the dues. However, through persistent dialogue and the mention of potential legal action, we secured an agreement for a reduced settlement of ₹2,04,800, to be paid in installments every 15–20 days.

By December, the contractor disbursed the first installment of ₹50,000, bringing immense relief to the laborers, who shared payment screenshots with our team. In January 2025, a second payment of ₹84,800 followed, and by March, the final installment of ₹70,000 was cleared, fully settling the amount. The laborers expressed their gratitude, and the case was successfully closed, showcasing the power of advocacy and perseverance in securing justice for vulnerable workers.

Maternity Benefit Success: Supporting Smt. Kudumula Navaneetha

In 2021, Smt. Kudumula Navaneetha from Naikotewada, Pargi Municipality, applied for a Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) card with the assistance of the Ankita Organisation, receiving card number ALOVKBD/2021/02124. When her daughter Pravallika delivered a child on September 3, 2023, Navaneetha sought maternity benefits. With the support of the DMRC Vikarabad team, she submitted her application through the Assistant Labour Officer (ALO) in Vikarabad. On June 12, 2024, the Telangana State Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (TSBOCWW) sanctioned and credited ₹30,038 to her account, providing crucial financial relief.

Scroll to Top