B'desh garment workers protest for higher wages, factories suspend operations
Dhaka, Nov 12, 2023, IANS
A total of 130 garment factories in Bangladesh have suspended operations for an indefinite period due to ongoing worker protests for higher wages. The protests have been ongoing for several days, and have reportedly led to vandalism and clashes between police and workers.
Mohammad Sarwar Alam, a superintendent of Industrial Police, told journalists that the workers are demanding a minimum monthly wage of 23,000 taka (209 U.S. dollars). The government has already announced a 56 percent wage increase, but the workers are rejecting this offer.
The protests have had a significant impact on the garment industry, which is one of the main pillars of the Bangladeshi economy. The industry accounts for over 80% of the country's exports, and employs millions of people.
The government has deployed paramilitary soldiers to major industrial zones in an effort to contain the protests. However, the workers have vowed to continue protesting until their demands are met.
The protests have also raised concerns about the working conditions in Bangladesh' garment factories. The industry has been criticized for its low wages, long hours, and unsafe working conditions. The protests are a reminder of the need for reforms in the industry.
The garment industry in Bangladesh is one of the largest in the world, and produces clothes for many popular brands.
The workers in the garment industry are predominantly women, and they are often paid very low wages.
The working conditions in the garment industry are often unsafe, and there have been several major accidents in recent years.
The Bangladeshi government has been criticized for its failure to protect the rights of garment workers.
Conclusion:
The protests in Bangladesh are a reminder of the challenges faced by garment workers around the world. The workers are demanding fair wages and safe working conditions. The government and the industry must take steps to address these demands. (Edited)