Dhaka: Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury on Thursday mandated that the wages and Eid bonuses for workers across all factories in the country be disbursed by May 21. He warned that any delays could potentially lead to industrial unrest as the festival approaches.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the directive was issued during the 95th session of the Tripartite Consultative Council (TCC) and the 24th meeting focused on the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector, held at the CIRDAP International Conference Centre. Worker representatives assured the minister that timely payments would prevent agitation and unrest. They also urged the government to act against factories that have yet to clear outstanding wages.
Labour leaders further requested the government to provide special transportation arrangements, including buses, trains, and launches, to facilitate workers’ travel to their home districts for Eid. In response, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring safe and smooth travel during the festive season. An agreement was reached to stagger factory closures in phases to reduce traffic congestion on highways.
Representatives from the Ministry of Shipping announced a 10 percent reduction in fares on all water routes to make Eid travel more affordable for workers. The Home Ministry reassured that law enforcement agencies are on alert to manage any potential disruptions during this period.
Key attendees at the meeting included Bangladesh Employers’ Federation President Fazle Shamim Ehsan, Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal President Anwar Hossain, senior officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and representatives from both employer and worker groups.