RMG workers block road in Ashulia demanding attendance bonus, 10% increment, and others

RMG workers from several factories blocked roads in the Ashulia area of Savar today (1 September), despite no unpaid dues, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

Top BGMEA officials confirmed that the factories had already cleared workers’ salaries, with no pending payments. 

However, industry sources said that the protests, which have been ongoing for the past week, stem from various demands, including an increase in tiffin allowances, attendance bonuses, a 10% annual increment, and earned leave (EL) for all staff.

Speaking to TBS, Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) said, “Outsiders were attempting to create unrest in industrial zones, particularly in Ashulia, targeting large factories.”

“Some outsiders also threw bricks at factories, forcing several to announce a day off today,” Hatem said.

According to BGMEA, workers from factories including Hamem, Shermin, Ananta, Newage, AM Design, NASA, Unicron Sweater, Naba Knit, and Trouser Land are currently on the streets in Ashulia. Meanwhile, Pearl Garments and Gildan factories in the area have been granted leave with pay, and no workers are present.

Naba Knit and Dress & Ideas factories have shut down under Sections 13/1 and 13/3/4 of the labour law, leaving hundreds of workers standing outside the factory gates. However, some factories that had previously faced challenges in reopening are now operating.

Among the operational factories are Skyline and NASA’s second building, though one unit remains closed while counselling is ongoing. 

“Other factories are running, and no roads are currently blocked. Industrial police and BGMEA officials are present, and the army is patrolling the area,” a BGMEA official stated.

BGMEA President Khandoker Rafiqul Islam noted that the organisation has been in discussions with trade union leaders, seeking their cooperation and identifying those involved in the unrest. 

“The union leaders acknowledged that this is not the right time for demonstrations demanding benefit hikes, especially after the implementation of a new wage structure,” Rafiqul Islam said. 

“We have also spoken with the current government to ensure security for industries during this period of economic volatility,” he added.