Even after the government-set deadline, a significant number of workers in various industries, including export-oriented ready-made garment (RMG) factories, had not received their February salaries and Eid festival allowances or bonuses as of 16 March.
This comes despite the government introducing a concessional loan facility for export-oriented institutions to help them pay workers’ wages and benefits ahead of the festival.
According to the Industrial Police, a total of 10,100 industrial factories across the country fall under its supervision.
As of 16 March, 7,556 factories (74.81%) had paid February wages and allowances, while payments remained pending in 2,544 factories (25.19%).
The data also showed that 5,093 factories (50.43%) had paid Eid bonuses to workers, while 5,007 factories (49.57%) had yet to disburse the bonuses.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Bank recently provided Tk2,500 crore in cash incentives across 43 sectors, including textiles, frozen seafood and leather, to support exporters ahead of Eid.
The central bank also introduced a special loan facility allowing export-oriented factories to borrow funds to pay one month’s wages to workers.
Problems persist in small and subcontracting factories
Md Towhidur Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Garment Workers Unity Council said that workers are facing greater difficulties at small and subcontracting factories across the country.
“Workers hope to receive their bonuses before Eid so they can celebrate the festival with their families. But some factory owners delay salary and bonus payments every year, which is unfortunate,” he said.
He added that workers contribute to companies throughout the year but often do not receive their dues on time.
“Factory owners seek government support every year, but this culture must change. Owners should make preparations several months in advance to ensure timely payments,” he said.
Businesses expect payments before Eid
Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, said the sector is currently facing financial pressure, which has delayed some payments.
“However, the garment sector is performing better compared to many other industries. The overall percentage appears high because it includes other sectors as well. The RMG industry maintains higher compliance standards,” he said.
He expressed hope that all workers would receive their salaries and Eid bonuses before the holiday.
Hatem also said workers are scheduled to enjoy the Eid vacation from 19 to 27 March.
“Officially, there are three days of holiday, but factories adjust additional leave days around Eid except for Fridays,” he added.
Md Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, vice-president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, said there are 2,127 factories in Dhaka and Chattogram, and the RMG sector directly employs more than 40 lakh workers.
“Banks have already released the necessary funds, and we expect all salaries and bonuses to be paid before Eid. Only around 1% of factories may face difficulties,” he said.
Earlier, Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury directed factory owners to clear all outstanding wages and bonuses before Eid.
“All concerned must ensure that there are no complications regarding workers’ dues under any circumstances,” he said.
Source: Daily Sun
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
