Chandigarh, Sept. 21 -- The Bihar Foundation (an initiative of the Bihar government) and the Purvanchal Association have expressed concern over reports on social media suggesting that migrant workers are being forced to leave Punjab.

In a joint statement, the two organisations said ensuring the safety of migrant workers, who had contributed significantly to Punjab's growth, was the responsibility of the state government. "We are confident that the spirit of brotherhood between the local population and the migrant community will be maintained, and strict action will be taken against elements trying to disrupt this harmony," the statement read.

Dr Rupesh Kumar Singh, chairman of the Punjab and Chandigarh chapter of Bihar Foundation, said ...