The Dhaka Garment Workers’ Wage Increase Struggle Council rallied outside the National Press Club, presenting a six-point demand that includes a one-month wage bonus in anticipation of Eid-ul-Fitr.
During the protest, speakers expressed urgent concerns about the escalating cost of essential goods alongside stagnant wages, which they claimed are making it increasingly challenging for workers to support their families. “It is impossible to sustain our families with the current wages,” they stated, voicing frustration over employers only disbursing part of the wages after a full week of labour.
The council criticised employers for breaching labour laws, citing instances where workers are compelled to work 14 to 16-hour shifts without receiving double pay for overtime. They also pointed out that many legal requirements are being overlooked, such as the provision of two festival bonuses equivalent to one month’s wages for Eid and ensuring salary payments are made by the 7th of each month.
The group emphasised the critical need to address these issues and outlined their key demands:
- Establish minimum wages that reflect current market price increases.
- Enforce an 8-hour workday with double pay for overtime.
- Provide a bonus equivalent to one month’s wages for Eid-ul-Fitr.
- Ensure salaries are paid by the 7th of each month.
- Stop the practice of delaying wage payments until just before Eid.
- Improve workplace safety, guarantee job security, promote equal pay for female employees, and offer health-conscious meals along with night allowances.
- The council called for prompt action to uphold the rights, dignity, and compliance with labor laws for all garment workers.
