Labor and Employment Ministry secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman has warned of strict action against factory owners who lay off workers illegally without following the labor law.
He gave this warning at a press conference after the 20th meeting of the RMG-TCC at the ministry on Tuesday.
Terming those conspiring in the garment sector as enemies of the country, the labor secretary said, “The intelligence agency has given information that a conspiracy is underway to create new instability after Eid by laying off workers. If such an attempt is made, the law will be strictly enforced.”
He said, “The intelligence agency is reporting that when the workers return to work after Eid, there will be major layoffs, creating another tension. That is why we held a meeting today.”
In response to a question from journalists, the labor secretary said, “If layoffs are to be done, it must be done according to the law. If layoffs are done illegally without mentioning the industrial police, local administration, army, and the local office of the Department of Factories, then I will take a strict stand against the owner. I will assume that he is trying to create worker discontent by making these layoffs and creating smoke once again.”
He also said, “Secondly, if there are any complaints due to the layoffs, they should be reported to the government offices. Even if someone tries to occupy the road and protest based on the layoffs, strict action will be taken. There is a right to protest, not a right to block the roads. If someone does (block the road), legal action will be taken.”
The labor secretary, citing information on various types of incitement in the ongoing labor movement, said, “Many labor leaders are inciting. We have found out those who are doing it. Action will be taken against them according to the law.”
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
