Exploring the perception of ethnic migrants in Kolkata, India: A comparative study using sentiment analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT The challenges faced by ethnic migrants in urban areas highlight the importance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of their perception. This research investigates the adaptive capacities of ethnic migrants, extending the analysis beyond the first generation to explain how these communities navigate challenges in the post-COVID era. The study examines the dynamics of ethnic migration, exploring intercultural interactions and the evolving experiences of successive migrant generations using sentiment analysis techniques. The study analyzes textual data from in-depth semi-structured interviews to understand their experiences in city and sentiments about the host community. Sentiment analysis, often known as opinion mining, is used in this research to determine the emotional undertone of the third and fourth-generation Chinese and Anglo-Indian residents living in Kolkata, India. The study contributes to evidence-based strategies by identifying positive and negative sentiments associated with ethnic migrants. Results show that the frequency and polarity of the words used during the interviews significantly explain their association with the host community and their sense of belongingness. The findings of this research are significant in indicating the vitality of these communities in the city.