RMG workers withdraw blockade from Nabinagar-Chandra Highway after 5.5hrs
Thousands of GAB Ltd factory workers took to the streets around 10am today [17 October] demanding the removal of a senior official and other benefits
Ready-made garment (RMG) workers of GAB Ltd have withdrawn the blockade from the Nabinagar-Chandra Highway in Ashulia after five and a half hours, following assurances from the factory management to address their demands.
"Thousands of GAB Ltd factory workers took to the streets around 10am today [17 October] demanding the removal of a senior official and other benefits, causing serious traffic congestion on both sides of the road," Ashulia Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abu Bakar Siddique told The Business Standard.
"More than five and a half hours later, the workers lifted the blockade around 3:30pm after the factory owner and management officials assured them of addressing their demands and proposed a discussion," the OC added.
This protest comes just days after a previous demonstration where the workers had raised multiple demands, which the factory authorities initially agreed to meet.
However, tensions flared again as the workers accused the factory management of reneging on their promises.
According to workers, they had submitted several demands to the management two months ago, including an increase in the quality of food provided to the workers, an increase in target-based incentives, and several other demands.
They claimed although the management agreed to some of the workers' demands, many other demands remained unfulfilled. Additionally, some of the demands agreed upon in a tripartite meeting between the government, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), and labour representatives, have not been implemented by the management.
The protesting workers also alleged that the factory manager, Tajul Islam, misappropriated the benefits provided to the workers.
Anjan, a swing operator at the factory, told TBS, "The management gave us blankets few days ago, but we didn't even get those. Manager Tajul has also misappropriated the picnic money. That's why we want him removed."
Another worker at the factory said, "Because of one person, we are deprived of the benefits that the management provides us. He is the manager, Tajul."
The workers also said they had been protesting at the factory for the past few days to meet their demands. The factory was declared closed the day before yesterday without any notice. Although the factory was open today, none from the management was present.
However, no comments could be obtained from any officials of the factory regarding these allegations and the overall matter.