MADARIPUR, Jan 15: Workers and families of A R Howlader Jute Mill formed a human chain on Tuesday morning in front of the District Commissioner's office, demanding the immediate payment of their outstanding dues spanning 33 years.
Over 200 affected labourers, both men and women, along with their families, gathered at 11 am on the main road to voice their grievances. The protest was organized by National Labour Workers' Sangram Parishad and other labour groups.
Shamim Imam, central general secretary of National Labour Workers' Sangram Parishad, delivered a speech highlighting the plight of the workers. "Governments change, MPs and ministers come and go, but the fate of the workers remains the same. It is time for the government to take immediate action to ensure that workers receive their rightful dues including salaries and allowances," he stated.
He also warned of intensified protests if the demands were not addressed promptly. "If these issues remain unresolved, we will mobilise a larger movement with the support of central and grassroots leaders," Imam added.
Other prominent speakers included Abdullah Al Kafi, a central leader of the National Workers' Movement Council, and Shamim Imam, general secretary of National Workers' Federation of Bangladesh. Nargis Akhter, A Rahman, Mizanur Rahman, Borhan Mia, and Shahriar also spoke on behalf of the workers' families.
The speakers emphasised the dire financial situations of the labourers and their families, who have endured decades of suffering due to unpaid wages and allowances. Many workers voiced concerns over their inability to afford basic necessities including education for their children and medical treatment for their families.
The workers called on the government to take immediate action and fulfil their long-overdue financial commitments. They urged the authorities to ensure that the 33-year arrears, including salaries, allowances, and other benefits, are paid without further delay.
