Dhaka:Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury announced today that the government will establish a new wage board for Readymade Garment (RMG) workers tomorrow. This decision was made following discussions with labor leaders and representatives from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized that there is no need for workers to stage protests, as the decision to form the wage board has been agreed upon after extensive discussions with labor leaders. The BGMEA and BKMEA have accepted the demand to establish the board to address the minimum wage for garment workers, who have been demanding a monthly minimum of Tk 30,000.
The minister further stated that a gazette notification will be published to announce the formation of the wage board, aiming to prevent future protests. Additionally, the issue of outstanding salaries was discussed, and BGMEA and BKMEA leaders are expected to engage with factory owners to ensure timely payment of these arrears.
Concerns were raised by the minister about outsiders allegedly inciting workers within factories, urging the media to reveal the true identities of those involved through video footage. Discussions have also been held to ensure that workers' salaries are paid by November 7.
The minister called on workers to return to their jobs, assuring that the government and factory owners are committed to meeting their demands. He stressed the importance of maintaining stability in the garment industry, highlighting the need for all parties, including factory owners and workers, to act responsibly.