Ahead of the crucial coffee picking season, the Somwarpet police have taken a proactive step by convening a meeting with local coffee growers. The primary agenda was to address concerns regarding the influx of migrant labourers and to establish clear guidelines to prevent the entry of illegal immigrants into the sprawling coffee estates of the region.
Key Guidelines for Plantation Owners
Heading the meeting at the Somwarpet police station, Inspector Muddumadeva addressed the gathering. He highlighted that hundreds of migrant workers arrive in the district specifically for the coffee harvesting work across numerous estates. The inspector issued several important directives for the plantation owners to ensure security and legality.
Inspector Muddumadeva emphasised that it is imperative for coffee growers to adopt enhanced precautionary measures during this busy season. He stated that estate owners must obtain complete background information about all workers coming to their plantations. This applies to both those staying in the traditional line houses and others.
Security Measures for Crop and Worker Welfare
The police provided a detailed list of recommendations for the growers. To combat theft, a significant concern during harvest, the inspector suggested that it would be better to install CC TV cameras across the estates. Furthermore, he advised that dedicated staff should be assigned to guard the coffee beans that are laid out in the fields for drying after the harvest.
Addressing a social aspect, the inspector noted that some migrant workers bring their children along. He urged plantation owners to pay attention to the welfare and safety of these children as part of their responsibility.
Mandatory Reporting to Police
A critical instruction from the meeting involved formal communication with the police. Inspector Muddumadeva directed that plantation owners must provide the local police station with complete details of all workers arriving from outside the region. This information should cover both those staying permanently and those residing temporarily on the plantation premises.
By implementing these guidelines, the Somwarpet police aim to create a more secure, transparent, and regulated environment for the vital coffee picking season, protecting the interests of both the growers and the legitimate migrant workforce.
