Labour leaders have urged authorities to release arrested readymade garment (RMG) workers and reopen factories that have been shut down amid recent unrest. The leaders also called on workers to return to their workplaces, emphasizing dialogue as the path to resolving the ongoing crisis.

Joint Press Conference in Dhaka

The demands were raised at a joint press conference held at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) in Dhaka on Friday. Addressing the media, the labour leaders outlined a three-point demand: the immediate release of all workers arrested in connection with the recent protests, the swift reopening of all closed garment factories, and the initiation of urgent tripartite discussions involving the government, factory owners, and worker representatives to find a lasting solution.

Appeal for Calm and Return to Work

During the press conference, the leaders appealed to garment workers to maintain peace and return to their respective workplaces. They argued that keeping factories operational is essential to ensure workers' wages and job security. The leaders stressed that resolving disputes through negotiation is a more effective approach than strikes or demonstrations.

The labour leaders reiterated their solidarity with workers' legitimate demands but expressed opposition to any form of anarchy or violence. They also called upon the government and factory owners to adopt a sympathetic attitude toward workers and to consider their legitimate demands with due importance.

Background of the Crisis

The press conference comes against the backdrop of recent labour unrest in several garment factories across the country, with workers protesting over wage hikes and other demands. A number of workers were arrested during the protests, and several factories were temporarily declared closed. The labour leaders' call for dialogue and resolution is seen as a significant step toward de-escalating tensions in the sector.