Awami League-linked factory owners, labour leaders behind RMG unrest: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday alleged that garment factory owners linked to the Awami League and some labour organisations were involved in creating unrest in the readymade garment sector.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with garment factory owners at the Secretariat, Salahuddin warned that those exploiting workers’ protests to create instability would face stern legal action.

“Some factory owners have deliberately shut down their factories. The owners have informed us about this and assured us of their cooperation,” he said.

The minister alleged that some labour leaders were also attempting to fuel unrest and said the government had asked factory owners to provide the names of the individuals and organisations involved.

“We believe no worker or labour organisation should engage in activities against workers’ interests,” he said.

Salahuddin warned that anyone engaging in violence, disrupting law and order or conspiring to destabilise the country under the guise of labour protests would be dealt with firmly.

“We brought some such individuals under the law yesterday. We have collected audio recordings, video footage and other evidence of their involvement in violent incidents,” he said.

The minister did not disclose the identities of those detained or specify the organisations allegedly involved.

He said the government remained committed to protecting workers’ rights while maintaining an investment- and business-friendly environment.

“This government is worker-friendly, investment-friendly and business-friendly. We will take all necessary steps to increase exports, create employment and safeguard workers’ interests,” he said.

Salahuddin urged factory owners to keep their establishments operational and resolve disputes with employees through dialogue.

“If there are problems, factory owners and workers should resolve them through discussions. But if anyone deliberately creates a law-and-order situation, we will intervene,” he said.

The Home Ministry is scheduled to meet representatives of labour organisations at 3 pm on Monday to discuss the situation.

--