Workers from 29 readymade garment (RMG) factories are continuing their protest, demanding a significant increase in their annual pay increment. The protests stem from the Government’s recent announcement of a 4 per cent rise in the regular annual increment, which they argue is insufficient, advocating instead for a 15 per cent increase.
On 12th December, workers from 25 factories participated in the boycott, following a decision by the government on 9th December to implement an additional 4 per cent increase to the existing 5 per cent increment, bringing the total annual raise to 9 per cent. Despite the protests, industrial police reported that workers are not engaging in any disruptive behavior, opting instead to abstain from work peacefully.
According to sources from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), production has ground to a halt at a total of 29 factories located in Ashulia. Of these, eight factories have been closed under Section 13(1) of the Bangladesh Labour Law, another eight are observing the Leave with Pay rule, while workers from 13 factories left without working after arriving at their workplaces in the morning.
Notable factories affected by the protests include Nassa Group, Trouser Line, and Al Muslim, with New Age Apparels declaring a general holiday.
Aggrieved workers voiced their concerns, stating that while they have multiple demands, the primary focus is the call for a 15 per cent increment. One worker explained, “Workers only realize what’s happening at other factories once they arrive at work. When news spreads of production halts at nearby factories, it prompts workers to abstain from work at their own facilities.”
Conversely, some workers expressed concerns over the impact of the protests. One worker opposing the movement remarked, “I don’t believe there’s justification for protesting under the current conditions, especially with a 9 per cent increment. The ongoing situation is damaging the industry, and I worry about our future.”
Superintendent of Industrial Police-1, Mohammad Mominul Islam Bhuiyan, confirmed that 13 factories had ceased production on 12th December, with 10 of those declaring a general holiday. He noted that the number of factories halting production had increased from 11 the previous day.
The situation remains tense as discussions continue between authorities and stakeholders in the industry in an effort to address the workers’ demands.
