The Kerala government is being proactive in accelerating the registration process and implementing a distinctive identification system for migrant laborers in the state. In light of recent reports of sexual offenses involving migrant workers and children, the government has launched the ‘Athidhi portal.’ This user-friendly online platform is designed to simplify the registration of ‘guest workers’ and enhance their social security measures.
Strengthening Registration and Security Measures
Introducing the Athidhi portal, an innovative initiative by the Kerala government, set to launch on Monday. Its primary focus is to accelerate the registration of migrant workers, particularly in response to two distressing incidents of sexual crimes involving minors. One such case involved the abduction, rape, and murder of a five-year-old girl from Aluva in Ernakulam District, allegedly by a migrant worker from Bihar. The state is determined to fortify its efforts to safeguard vulnerable individuals and uphold their rights.
Assisting Guest Workers through Help Desks
To ensure no guest worker is excluded from the portal, the Kerala government plans to establish help desks at railway stations, where large numbers of guest workers often arrive. These desks will provide valuable aid to workers, guiding them through the registration process and ensuring their inclusion in the system.
Statewide Launch and Worker Registration
The Athidhi portal is slated for a statewide launch on August 7, aiming to streamline guest worker registration across the state. Contractors and employers will play a vital role in registering workers in the portal, ensuring accurate entry of all essential details. An enrolling officer will then meticulously review the provided information and assign a unique ID to each worker. This identification system will facilitate tracking workers and efficient record management.
Ensuring Social Security for Migrant Workers
The Athidhi portal goes beyond expediting registration; it’s designed to gather essential information about migrant workers, ensuring their access to social security measures. By establishing a distinct identification system, the portal will safeguard workers’ rights and provide a sense of security in an unfamiliar environment.”
