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Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has alleged that certain groups are attempting to create unrest in the garment sector for political purposes, warning that legal action will be taken against anyone trying to shut factories or disrupt production.
He also said measures would be taken to reopen factories that have already suspended operations.
The minister made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Tuesday (November 3).
He said unrest in some areas was not necessarily related to garment workers’ demands, alleging that certain groups were instigating workers to halt production to serve their political interests.
“Such activities will be dealt with firmly,” he warned, expressing concern that some miscreants might attempt attacks.
Salahuddin said workers’ demands had been addressed through the formation of a wage board, adding that workers were satisfied with the initiative.
He said he had spoken with almost all labour leaders and factory owners, and both sides were satisfied with the discussions.
The wage board has already begun its work, where representatives of workers and employers will negotiate to determine wages, he added.
The minister said the board had been asked to consider a minimum wage that would help improve workers’ living standards.
He stressed that discussions over workers’ demands were ongoing and there was no justification for further unrest at this stage.
Anyone attempting to close garment factories or disrupt production would face action under the law, he warned.
The home minister further alleged that certain groups linked to the ousted fascist regime were trying to destabilise the garment industry to serve narrow political interests, vowing strict action against such activities.
