Salahuddin blames instigators across border for RMG unrest

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has blamed instigators from across the border for the ongoing unrest in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

“A conspiracy is underway to disrupt the country's export trade and production by using innocent garment workers. The government will deal with such activities with an iron hand,” he said on Sunday night.

The minister was speaking at a press briefing after a meeting with the prime minister at the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka to review the evolving situation in the garment sector. 

Salahuddin said, “We have noticed that many masked individuals have infiltrated various stages of the movement to serve their vested interests. We have information in this regard, which is being analysed.

“Many people are fuelling unrest from across the border by exploiting garment workers. Their aim is to create instability here, disrupt our export trade and hamper production in the garment sector.”

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He said those involved in violent activities had already been brought under the law, adding that the police and other law enforcement agencies would take a tough stance against any subversive activities.

He also claimed that no genuine garment workers or legitimate workers' organisations were involved in the violent movement.

“We believe that no genuine workers are involved in these violent movements. They will hold discussions. They have submitted the names of their representatives, and a wage board has been formed. Their minimum wages will be determined through this board.” 

Salahuddin said the prime minister advised the authorities to protect garment workers' interests, improve their living standards, prevent disruptions to production and boost exports.

“All necessary steps should be taken keeping all these issues in mind,” he added.

The minister urged garment factory owners to keep their factories operational and maintain production. 

He said owners should avoid taking any steps that could trigger an export crisis and continue operations through mutual understanding and discussions with workers.