Chattogram: State Minister for Land and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin has expressed concern over the lack of fair rights for the country’s working class people. Working class people were deprived of their rights in the past 17 years, he said at a discussion at Chattogram Shilpakala Academy Auditorium marking May Day and National Occupational Health and Safety Day today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mir Helal highlighted issues such as the absence of a safe working environment, inadequate wages, and the lack of justice and compensation for families of workers killed in factory accidents. The event was jointly arranged by the Divisional Labour Office, the Department of Inspection of Factories and Establishments, and the Labour Welfare Centers.
Mir Helal emphasized the government’s dedication to upholding workers’ rights, citing the election manifesto of BNP focused on fair wages and an improved living standard for the workers. He announced plans to establish an independent monitoring system to enforce labor laws and enhance the autonomy of trade unions. The government aims to prioritize workers’ health, housing, and social security.
The minister stressed the importance of unity among workers, farmers, students, and the public to create a more just and equal society in Bangladesh. He stated that this belief and central principle are shared by the Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman.
The event was chaired by Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miaw, with City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, Ershad Ullah, MP, and Mohammad Abu Sufian, MP, present as special guests.