Garment factory owners in Bangladesh have been given a strict deadline to settle all outstanding wages of their workers by 28th May, or face arrest and potential imprisonment, announced Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (Retired) M Sakhawat Hossain on Wednesday (May 21).
The warning was issued during a press briefing at the Secretariat following a meeting focused on Eid-ul-Adha preparations. Adviser Sakhawat emphasised the seriousness of the matter, stating, “Factory owners must pay their workers, even if they have to sell their houses or vehicles. Anyone unable to pay for two or three months has no place in this sector.” He also revealed that arrest warrants have already been issued against five factory owners, and if any are found abroad, red alerts will be activated through appropriate channels.
Sakhawat expressed frustration over the situation, noting that although factories fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Industries and Commerce, responsibility for worker payments has fallen on his office. He mentioned plans to prevent factory owners from staying in Dhaka if they fail to meet the deadline. The adviser warned that if factory owners do not comply, warrants will be activated, and they could be arrested.
The government’s firm stance on worker wages and transportation infrastructure highlights ongoing efforts to ensure economic stability and regional development ahead of the upcoming Eid festivities.
