Workers from Base Textile Limited, a factory in Chittagong that shut down two years ago, have finally received their long-awaited wages. A total of 873 workers benefited from payments amounting to Taka 3.78 crore, secured by the Bangladesh Free Garment Workers Union Federation (BIGOF) from a buyer based in the USA, as reported by the organisation’s President, Chandan Kumar Dey.
Dey explained that a 20 per cent commission was deducted from each payment for the settlement process. “Our organisation typically deducts 10 per cent, but due to the extensive effort over the past two years, we increased it to 20 per cent this time,” he stated. Despite the deduction, many workers expressed their gratitude for finally receiving their outstanding payments. Selina Akhter, one of the recipients, shared her relief, saying, “I never thought I would see this money. After two years, I received Taka 24,000 in dues, even though 20 per cent was deducted.”
The disbursement took place at the Din Mohammad Community Center, located near the BIGOF office in the Pathantuli area of Chittagong. Dey mentioned that another distribution event would be organised in 30 days to accommodate any workers who may have been overlooked. Any remaining funds will be returned to the buyers.
The distribution process was conducted independently, without involvement from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) or the Department of Labour, which has raised some concerns. When questioned about this approach, Dey explained, “We worked directly with the buyer. While it would have been ideal to inform the labour department, it simply wasn’t feasible in this case.”
Syed Nazrul Islam, former first vice president of BGMEA, acknowledged the workers’ ongoing struggles, stating, “During my time in office, the workers protested, and while we made efforts to address their issues, the resolution was incomplete. It is encouraging to see them finally receiving their dues, although there are still questions regarding the total number of beneficiaries.”
Base Textile Limited commenced operations in 1998 in Mohra, Kalurghat, and at its peak, employed around 2,870 workers. The factory ceased operations in 2022 after failing to pay salaries and bonuses for an extended period. Following its closure, the owner reportedly left the country, leaving the employees without compensation.
