Garment unrest should not linger

The current unrest has turned out to be a test of national security and democratic resilience. The streets of Dhaka, Gazipur, Ashulia and Savar have become battlegrounds as workers take to the streets demanding a minimum monthly wage of Tk 30,000. This movement is neither an isolated incident nor an expression of sudden anger. Instead, it is a desperate outcry from working-class people struggling to survive amid the relentless burden of soaring inflation. However, what is particularly concerning is the emergence of an invisible, far-reaching and sinister network of conspiracies surrounding this legitimate movement for workers’ rights.
According to reports published in national newspapers, certain operatives of a banned political party, along with vested interest groups, have exploited workers’ legitimate grievances to engage in deliberate acts of sabotage. Through arson attacks on police vehicles, vandalism of traffic booths and attempts to create fear and instability (which can never be an option to uphold freedom of expression and to express dissent) in industrial areas, these groups are allegedly pursuing a malicious agenda to push the country towards deeper political instability.
After the government’s decision to form a new wage board to facilitate an increase in workers’ wages, it was expected that workers would give some time to the government and return to factories. But they continue demonstrating, probably due to their experience with the fascist Awami League government. So, taking into account the longstanding deprivation of workers, the lack of adequate social security and the escalating cost of living, the authorities must work towards a realistic and dignified solution without unnecessary delay. At the same time, although those responsible for sabotage must be brought to justice through firm legal action, law enforcement agencies must exercise the utmost discretion and professionalism to ensure that legitimate workers’ voices are not suppressed and innocent individuals are not subjected to indiscriminate harassment under the pretext of maintaining law and order.
To keep the wheels of industry turning and sustain the lifeblood of the national economy, employers and workers alike must establish a relationship founded on mutual trust and understanding. Policymakers, including intelligence agencies, must remain highly vigilant to prevent any politically motivated forces from exploiting ordinary workers and undermining one of the country’s most vital economic sectors.