Different political parties and trade unions severely criticise the government decision on reopening of export-oriented factories from today amid strict restrictions on public movement and business operations.
They denounced the reopening of garment factories without ensuring transport for apparel workers despite the ongoing restrictions resumed on July 23 after Eid-ul-Azha with an aim to contain the worsening Covid situation.
In separate statements, they condemned the move for exposing the workers to health risks during the Covid pandemic.
There are around 40 lakh garment workers and most of them went to their native homes during the Eid observed on July 21 as the restrictions were extended till August 5, shutting all factories for the first time besides other businesses and all modes of public transports.
Workers face severe trouble and difficulties in returning to their workplaces for the closure of public transports during restrictions.
They will also face health risks during their return, said labour leaders.
Bangladesh Garment Sramik Samhati held protest rallies at Shahbagh and Ashulia in Dhaka condemning the reopening of factories and demanded steps for ensuring Covid vaccines for garment workers and ensuring safety at workplaces.
Garment Sramik Samhati president Taslima Akhter said at the rally in front of the National Museum at Shahbagh that the government and garment factory owners would be responsible for if any worker contact Covid-19 on their way to workplaces.
The organisation’s general secretary Julhasneen Babu, central leaders Prabir Saha and Musa Kalimullah among others were present.
Garment Workers Trade Union Centre president Mantu Ghosh and acting general secretary Iquebal Hossain in a press statement also condemned the decision on the reopening of garment factories.
They called on factory owners to ensure safety of the workers.
Garments Sramik Oikya Forum president Mushrefa Mishu and acting general secretary Shahidul Islam Sabuj in a press statement also condemned the reopening of garment factories.
Bangladesh Trade Union Centre president Shahidullah Chowdhury and general secretary Wajed-ul Islam Khan, Socialist Labour Front present Razequzzaman Ratan general secretary Ahsan Habib Bulbul also condemned the sudden reopening of the factories.
Bangladesh Trade Union Sangha president Habibullah Bachchu and general sectary Chowdhury Ashiqul Alam also condemned the decision.
Leaders of Left Democratic Alliance, a combine of nine left leaning political parties, coordinator Bazlur Rashid Firoz, Workers Party of Bangladesh leader Abul Hossain, Nagarik Oikya convener Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Jatiya Mukti Council president Badruddin Umar and general secretary Faiezul Hakim in separate statements also expressed concern over the reopening of factories during restrictions.
