Migration, Workers, and Fundamental Freedoms: Pandemic Vulnerabilities and States of Exception in India

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a mass exodus of Indian migrant workers from cities to villages, leading to social conditions and concerns around health, labor, migration, and gender. The book examines the failings of public health systems and the state response, highlighting the disproportionate impact on marginalized social groups. It reflects on the socio-economic vulnerabilities of migrant workers, their rights to dignity, citizenship, and the need for robust systems of democratic and constitutional accountability. The book also critically looks at the gendered vulnerabilities of women and non-cis persons, the exacerbation of social stratification and prejudices, incidents of intimidation, and proposed labor reforms that may create greater insecurities for migrant workers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant wave of migration as Indian migrant workers flocked back to their rural villages, leaving the cities behind. This book delves into the complex social dynamics and pressing concerns surrounding health, labor, migration, and gender that emerged as a result of this forced relocation. It sheds light on the inadequacies of public health systems and the inadequate state response to the humanitarian crisis that unfolded during the pandemic. It highlights the disproportionate impact of the lockdown on marginalized social groups, such as Dalits and Adivasi communities, women, and Muslim workers. The book explores the socio-economic vulnerabilities of migrant workers, their rights to dignity, and the challenges surrounding citizenship. It also raises critical questions about the need for robust systems of democratic and constitutional accountability. The chapters critically examine the gendered vulnerabilities of women and non-cis persons in both public and private spaces, the exacerbation of social stratification and prejudices, incidents of intimidation by the administration and police forces, and proposed labor reforms that may further jeopardize the security of migrant workers.

This timely and essential book holds immense value for researchers and students in sociology, public policy, development studies, gender studies, labor and economics, and law. It provides valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges faced by migrant workers during the pandemic and offers valuable recommendations for addressing these issues.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367641559