Surat : Bengali Karigars in Gujarat’s Jewelry Industry Face Exodus Amidst Security Concerns

Surat : The jewelry manufacturing landscape in Gujarat is witnessing a concerning exodus as Bengali karigars, who have long been an integral part of the industry, are leaving the state following security threats.

The trigger for this upheaval was a viral video from Rajkot in which an individual threatened Bengali artisans to depart Gujarat. This wave of departures comes in the wake of recent arrests by the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of a few Bengali artisans on charges of involvement in spreading terrorist activities in the state.

Surat, renowned as a jewelry manufacturing hub, heavily relies on its skilled workforce of over 70,000 Bengali artisans. These artisans have been instrumental in shaping the industry, contributing their artistic brilliance and craftsmanship. However, the arrest of Bengali artisans in Rajkot has caused a sense of fear and insecurity among the community. The viral video intensifying these concerns has prompted many artisans to consider leaving Surat.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and the Surat Jewellery Manufacturers Association (SJMA) swung into action to take proactive stance to address these apprehensions.

The GJEPC office-bearers have engaged with leaders of the Bengali Karigar Association to ensure the security and safety of the artisans.

Despite these efforts, the Bengali artisans remain skeptical about their safety in Gujarat. The arrests and subsequent tagging of Bengali karigars as terrorists by local authorities have shaken their trust in the security measures. The GJEPC is working tirelessly to retain the artisans, who are the backbone of the flourishing jewelry industry in Surat.

In a press release, the GJEPC expressed its commitment to creating a secure environment for the Bengali karigars in Gujarat. The council aims to address their well-being and safety concerns and promote collaboration for the advancement of the jewelry manufacturing industry. The GJEPC believes that the artistic brilliance, dedication, and skills of these artisans have not only elevated the industry but also added to the rich cultural tapestry of the state.