RMG sector unrest going to fresh labour movement

RMG sector unrest going to fresh labour movement

The RMG sector of the country has been dealing with a fresh wave of labour protests for the last few days, which has given rise to new worries among the owners of the RMG factories regarding the safety of their industrial units.
In the last few days, at least 300 RMG factories in the Ashulia and Gazipur RMG industrial hub were declared closed as workers came out of factories and protested in the streets for rights and benefits.
Insiders claim that although workers monthly wages have been cleared, some are voicing further demands in an effort to stir up trouble given the weak law and order situation since the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 in a mass uprising.
They also said that “outside groups” were trying to take advantage of the situation by making the worker demonstrations into a significant disturbance in this industrial hub. Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Khandoker Rafiqul Islam said the unrest has predominantly been instigated by outsiders, while internal issues within the factories are minimal.
"These outsiders pose significant challenges to the smooth operation of factories," he added.
BGMEA Senior Vice President Abdullah Hil Rakib said, "The current issues affect not only the apparel sector but also have implications for other industries, including pharmaceuticals."