The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has strongly condemned the attack on Deputy Managing Director of Mahmud Jeans Ltd Rafee Mahmud in Gazipur’s Kaliakoir yesterday (28 November).
In a press statement today (29 November), BGMEA expressed deep concern over the incident.
Rafee, also the son of the factory owner, was discussing the issue of pending wages with the workers yesterday evening. Some people attacked and injured him, confining him to the factory.
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Later, the army and police rescued him from the factory, BGMEA said.
“Such an attack during ongoing negotiations is unacceptable.”
BGMEA believes that such audacity is a blow to the entire industry. It is unacceptable to attack an industry that is the driving force of the country’s economy, directly employs 40 lakh workers, and indirectly supports the livelihoods of 5 crore people.
This incident will send the wrong message about the country’s industry to the outside world, the statement read.
The association called on law enforcement agencies to actively assist in maintaining order within the industry and urged relevant government authorities to prioritise the security of all RMG factories.
BGMEA also demanded those who are involved in instigating and destabilising the industry be brought to justice.
Meanwhile, in another statement today, Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) President Mohammad Hatem condemned the heinous attack on Rafee Mahmud.
“I also wish Rafi a swift recovery and demand the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of the attackers,” he said.
He also urged the government to pay attention to protecting the RMG industry.
