Alarming instances of arson and vandalism at clothing factories have been reported by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), which claims that the rumours surrounding disappearances are to blame.
Abdullah Hil Rakib, Senior Vice President of the BGMEA, voiced concerns about the growing level of insecurity in the apparel industry at a press conference, claiming that factory owners are not happy with the safety protocols in place. He emphasised that unfounded rumours are fuelling the instability that is currently occurring, which is leading to criminal activity directed towards factories.
“Business owners in the apparel industry are calling for stronger security protocols. Without these, continued labour unrest might potentially harm our factories,” Rakib said.
Dissatisfaction in the industry persists despite prior agreements on the 18 requests of workers. Rakib brought out the fact that some groups are spreading misinformation and terror by taking advantage of the deteriorating state of law and order.
The Bangladesh Garment and Sweaters Workers Trade Union Center’s Legal Affairs Secretary, Khairul Mamun, recognised that things have lately improved in the Ashulia industrial sector. On the other hand, he denounced the worker’s death and multiple injuries sustained that same day. “In areas where progress was observed, it is imperative to scrutinise these occurrences and promptly tackle the fundamental problems to avert more severe crises in the sector,” Mamun recommended.
A safer working environment has been demanded by both factory owners and employees, who have emphasised that it is the duty of the government to guarantee that security measures are effective. In an effort to hold those responsible for the violence accountable, the BGMEA has demanded enquiries into the individuals who committed these crimes.
Experts caution that the nation’s economy depends heavily on the garment sector, which directly employs about 4 million people and indirectly employs at least 20 million more. Any danger to this industry might have disastrous effects on both the workforce and the nation’s financial stability.
