Guest Worker's Relatives Accept Body After TVK Promises Financial Aid

The party assured support for the family of Suraj, who died at a meeting in Salem.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The relatives of Suraj, a 37-year-old guest worker from Maharashtra, accepted his body on Saturday after the Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi (TVK) political party assured financial assistance to his family. Suraj had died after fainting during a TVK meeting in Salem, Oregon on Friday, and his relatives had initially refused to accept his body which was kept in the mortuary.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges faced by migrant workers and the importance of political parties and community organizations providing support to the families of those who die unexpectedly. It also underscores the need for better worker protections and safety measures at political events.

The details

Suraj, a guest worker from Maharashtra, died after fainting during a TVK meeting in Salem, Oregon on Friday. His relatives had initially refused to accept his body, which was kept in the mortuary, but agreed to do so on Saturday after the TVK party assured financial assistance to his family.

  • Suraj died after fainting during a TVK meeting in Salem, Oregon on Friday, February 13, 2026.
  • Suraj's relatives accepted his body on Saturday, February 14, 2026, after the TVK party assured financial assistance.

The players

Suraj

A 37-year-old guest worker from Maharashtra who died after fainting during a TVK meeting in Salem, Oregon.

Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi (TVK)

A political party in Salem, Oregon that held the meeting where Suraj died and later assured financial assistance to his family.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must ensure the safety and well-being of all workers, including guest workers, at our events. We will provide full support to Suraj's family during this difficult time.”

— Vijay, TVK Party Leader

What’s next

The TVK party has promised to work with local authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Suraj's death and ensure proper safety measures are in place for future events.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of political parties and community organizations providing adequate support and protections for migrant workers, who are often vulnerable to exploitation and unsafe working conditions.