The tragic loss of garment union leader Shahidul Islam in Tongi, Gazipur, Bangladesh on 25th June is attributed to his labour rights activism, according to the Clean Clothes Campaign, which described his killing a horrific act of violence even if this devastating incident signifies a substantial setback for the Bangladesh labour movement.
The NGO emphasised the urgent need for the “Bangladesh Government to initiate a prompt and unbiased investigation into the murder of Shahidul Islam. It further asserted that strict measures must be taken against the perpetrators responsible for this heinous act of violence.”
With a tenure of 25 years as an organiser for the Bangladesh Garment and Industrial Workers Federation (BGIWF), Shahidul Islam, according to the Clean Clothes Campaign, dedicated his life to advocating for workers’ rights as a trade union organiser.
Tragically, he lost his life while courageously fighting for his beliefs. The NGO expresses its heartfelt condolences to his grieving family, friends, and fellow comrades during this difficult time.
According to the statement, Shahidul Islam, who served as the president of BGIWF’s Gazipur district committee, and his colleagues were subjected to an assault following a meeting with the management of Prince Jacquard Sweaters Ltd.
The purpose of the meeting was to assist workers in receiving their rightful bonuses and wages. Shockingly, the factory management disregarded the directives from the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office of Gazipur District to fulfill their obligation of paying the workers’ salaries.
Shahidul Islam and union representatives were viciously attacked after the meeting, rendering him unconscious and fatally wounded.
