1,868 workers laid off from 3 factories

SAVAR, JUNE 6: A total of 1,868 workers have been laid off from three factories of Al-Muslim Group in Savar, with employees alleging that proper procedures under labour laws were not followed during the retrenchment process.

The affected workers include 1,286 from AKM Knitwear Limited in Ulail, 529 from Pacific Blue Jeans Wear in Radio Colony, and 53 from Al-Muslim Apparels in Ashulia. Lists of terminated employees have been displayed on factory gates.

Several workers said they learned about their dismissal only after returning from Eid holidays. Many alleged that no prior notice was given and that they were simply informed their jobs had ended when they reported back to work.

Workers gathered in front of the factories in Radio Colony and Ulail on Saturday morning, demanding clarification and alleging violations of labour laws.

Al-Muslim Group said the layoffs were carried out under Section 20 of the Bangladesh Labour Act due to a business slowdown and reduced purchase orders, adding that all dues and benefits had been paid as per regulations.