Army-police-industrial police ops to tackle Bangladesh labour unrest

The operation began last night and is aimed at enhancing security in the apparel industry.

The decision was arrived at during a meeting yesterday between Chowdhury the home affairs adviser and representatives from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).

BGMEA president Khandaker Rafiqul Islam said if needed, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) would also join the operation.

The government urged factory owners to keep all factories open beginning today to ensure smooth running of the economy.

In the last few days, at least 50 apparel units in the Ashulia industrial hub were closed as workers came out of factories and protested on the streets for their rights and benefits like attendance bonuses.

BKMEA president Mohammad Hatem feels vested interest groups—both domestic and foreign—have taken over workers as part of a conspiracy, a feeling echoed by many others as well within the industry, according to domestic media reports.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)