Apparel exporters and labor leaders are expressing significant concern over a wave of protests in the Ashulia industrial zone, located on the outskirts of Dhaka, despite ongoing efforts to address workers’ demands. The protests, which began on 11th December, have seen workers from 25 factories rallying for up to a 20 per cent annual wage increase, just days after a 9 per cent increment was agreed upon in a tripartite meeting involving government officials, factory owners, and labor representatives.
Factory owners, who requested anonymity, voiced their frustrations, fearing that unrest could spread to their own facilities. They criticised labour leaders for not ensuring that workers adhere to the agreements reached during negotiations with the government and factory owners.
Nazma Akter, president of the Bangladesh Sommilito Garments Sramik Federation, condemned the current protests as contrary to the principles of trade unionism. She urged workers to engage in dialogue with factory owners to negotiate their demands rather than resorting to protests. Akter expressed concern over instances where protesting workers have attacked other factories and disrupted production for those who wished to continue working.
Mohiuddin Rubel, a former director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), called for the government to implement stricter measures to maintain law and order and to identify those instigating the unrest. He emphasised the need for comprehensive coordination between local labor leaders, political figures, factory owners, and federation leaders to effectively tackle the situation.
Babul Akhter, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Garments and Industrial Workers Federation, explained that the recent 9 per cent wage increase was the result of extensive negotiations, including government involvement. He noted that many workers in Ashulia are affiliated with local political parties, which can influence their actions and lead to disregard for the directives of labour federation leaders. Akhter added that the current political climate has emboldened workers, allowing them to protest without fear of immediate repercussions from the interim government.
As production continues to be halted in 29 factories in Ashulia, both factory owners and labour leaders are urging the Government and federation leaders to enhance coordination and efforts to restore order, emphasising the importance of maintaining the country’s global reputation in the apparel industry.
