Dhaka:Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has accused 'fascist supporters' of infiltrating and fueling unrest among readymade garment (RMG) workers. He stated that genuine workers and trade union leaders were not involved in the ongoing violent acts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Salahuddin Ahmed emerged from a meeting with labor leaders, asserting that 'supporters of the ousted fascist forces' and opportunistic groups had infiltrated the ongoing unrest in the RMG sector. He claimed these groups were inciting violence to destabilize industrial stability, warning that those involved would be identified and prosecuted.
Discussions with labor leaders at the meeting focused on addressing the industrial unrest, considering workers' legitimate demands, and restoring normalcy in garment factories. Ahmed noted that analysis of CCTV footage and video recordings revealed masked individuals inciting violence for political gain.
The minister urged garment workers not to be swayed by rumors or propaganda and encouraged them to return to work promptly and maintain discipline. He also assured that cases against innocent workers and labor leaders arrested during the unrest would be considered for lawful release.
Labor and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury, Prime Minister's Adviser Mahdi Amin, and labor leader and lawmaker Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas attended the meeting. Several labor organization leaders were also present.
Ahmed stated that the reconstitution of the Minimum Wage Board had been completed after consultations with employers and workers, fulfilling a key demand of garment workers. The new wage structure aims to balance workers' welfare with the sustainability of the garment industry.
Bangladesh Garment and Industrial Workers Federation general secretary Babul Akter urged RMG workers to return to factories and resume production immediately. He emphasized pursuing wage demands through peaceful negotiations and expressed optimism for finalizing a new wage structure by December.