The unrest in Ashulia’s industrial area, originating from ongoing protests by RMG workers over annual increment hikes, has improved somewhat on the first day of the week.
Production activities remained normal in most factories here.
However, despite the government’s announcement of a 4% annual increment increase, workers in some apparel factories in Ashulia continued their strike, demanding a 15% increase instead.
According to BGMEA sources, production activities were suspended in 10 factories within the industrial area. Among these, workers at four factories either walked out or staged a strike despite reporting to work in the morning. Additionally, five factories were closed under the “no work, no pay” provision as per section 13(1) of the Bangladesh Labour Act, while one factory remains closed with paid leave for workers.
An official from the Industrial Police told The Business Standard that there were some disturbances in 7/8 factories. However, following discussions, workers in half the factories resumed their duties.
Mohammad Mominul Islam Bhuiyan, Superintendent of Police for Industrial Police-1, told TBS that the situation in Ashulia is calmer compared to recent days. “Work is ongoing in most factories, and we are actively engaging with all stakeholders to further stabilise the situation,” he added.
Worker layoffs amid protest
Reports have emerged of worker layoffs in several factories amidst ongoing protests in the industrial area, where workers are demanding increment hikes. The Industrial Police and labour leaders have also confirmed the situation.
While the exact number of affected factories and workers remains unclear, Mohammad Mominul Islam Bhuiyan Superintendent of Industrial Police-1, told TBS that approximately 300 workers have been laid off across three factories. Among them, two factories implemented layoffs under Section 26(1) of the Bangladesh Labour Act, while one acted under Section 23(1).
Khairul Mamun Mintu, legal affairs secretary
