Jamaat Ameer suspects conspiracy behind garment industry unrest

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has voiced concerns over a possible deep-rooted conspiracy behind the ongoing unrest in the country's garment industry, urging the government to take a tough stance against those attempting to destroy industrial establishments.

He made the remarks in a post on his verified Facebook page on Monday.

In the post, Shafiqur said unrest in the garment sector continued, with disturbing incidents of vandalism and arson reported at industrial establishments in different areas. Neither factory owners nor workers could establish their rights by destroying industrial units, he said, adding that workers should not engage in such activities.

He further alleged that conspirators and opportunists appeared to be fuelling the situation to undermine the garment industry and called on the government to take firm action against them.

The Jamaat chief also said nearly 600 factories had already been declared closed. He expressed concern that a deeper conspiracy could not be ruled out behind attempts to undermine the sector ahead of the winter season, when the industry usually sees fresh business opportunities.

In this context, he urged factory owners, workers and all other stakeholders to remain sincere and vigilant in protecting the interests of the garment industry.