Dhaka: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has announced that the government has designated an additional inspector general of police from the Industrial Police as a focal point to oversee the distribution of salaries, bonuses, and other benefits to ready-made garment (RMG) workers in anticipation of Eid-ul-Fitr. This initiative aims to address potential issues and ensure that payments are made promptly.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the decision was revealed by Minister Salahuddin during discussions with journalists following two meetings focused on facilitating a smooth and safe Eid journey and ensuring a peaceful celebration of the Independence and National Day. The appointment of the focal point is intended to mitigate the risk of labour unrest in the RMG sector, which is a crucial contributor to the country’s economy.
Salahuddin further shared that leaders from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) had communicated with the government prior to Eid. They provided assurances that most garment workers would receive their due payments before the festival, with only minor exceptions anticipated.
The home minister expressed confidence that factory owners would manage to fulfill their payment obligations on time. He noted that both the government and the banking sector are prepared to offer necessary support to facilitate this process.
In his remarks, Salahuddin, who is also a standing committee member of the ruling BNP, called upon RMG factory owners and workers to address any payment-related concerns ahead of Eid to maintain stability within the sector.