Workers from three garment factories in Ashulia have halted operations, demanding a 15 per cent annual wage increase and a minimum salary of Taka 25,000. The factories affected include New Age, Al Muslim, and Nasar, where workers ceased work around 11 AM, prompting factory management to declare general holidays.
An officer from the Ashulia Industrial Police, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed the situation, noting that similar actions had occurred at another factory just a day prior due to the same grievances.
Khairul Mamun Mintu, legal secretary of the Bangladesh Garments and Sweater Workers Trade Union Center, stated that workers from multiple factories have been striking since the previous day, focusing on demands that include wage increments. He highlighted that these issues stem from the failure to implement an 18-point agreement made during a tripartite meeting that involved government representatives. Key demands include increases in night shift allowances and attendance bonuses.
Mintu expressed concern over the strikes, especially given that the Reform Commission and a committee for wage re-evaluation are currently addressing these matters and holding discussions. He urged for a resolution by December to prevent further discontent among workers in the new year.
Attempts to reach Md Sarwar Alam, the superintendent of Industrial Police-1, for further comments were unsuccessful. According to sources within the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), seven factories in the Ashulia area are affected, either shutting down operations, sending workers on paid leave, or experiencing walkouts.
The ongoing protests have resulted in significant disruptions in production at several factories, including NASA Super Garments Limited, NASA Basic Limited, AJ Super Garments Limited, Al Muslim Apparels, and Trouser Line Limited.
