The National Shop Employees Federation has issued a stern warning that over 6 million retail workers across the country will shut down shops and shopping malls nationwide ahead of Eid-ul-Azha if their Eid bonuses are not paid. The declaration was made during a press conference held at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital.
Md Rafiqul Islam, the federation’s General Secretary, highlighted that more than 60 lakh employees work across various retail sectors, including shops, shopping malls, chain stores, departmental stores, wholesale markets, electronics outlets, salons, beauty parlors, and pharmacies. He emphasised that these workers provide essential services to the public, often sacrificing their comfort and leisure, yet are deprived of their basic needs and legal rights.
Islam pointed out that according to labour laws, all workers are entitled to two Eid bonuses annually, each equivalent to one month’s basic salary. However, he claimed that this provision is not being implemented for retail workers nationwide.
The speakers also raised concerns over poor employment practices, noting that many workers do not receive appointment letters despite legal mandates. They further alleged that employees often work between 10 to 14 hours daily without receiving any overtime pay beyond the legal 8-hour limit.
The press conference was attended by several leaders of the federation, including Hazrat Ali Molla, Abu Bakkar Siddique, Abdus Salam, Paresh Majumder, Fazlul Haque, Babul Bepari, Didar Hossain, Khalilur Rahman, Suraiya Jesmin Ruma, Aleya Begum, Md Zahid Hossain, and Tanzina Akter.
