Dhaka, Sep 23 (V7N) – Protests over wage hikes and working conditions led to the closure of three factories in Gazipur’s Kaliakair, Sreepur, and Tongi areas, and the detention of six individuals by the army.

Thousands of factory workers took to the streets today, blocking key highways, including Dhaka-Tangail and Dhaka-Mymensingh, causing widespread traffic disruptions. The authorities responded by closing Mahmud Denims Ltd., Iku Knit, and Cokola Food Products Limited, all located in the Kaliakair area.

Workers at Cokola Food Products Limited began their protests around 10:30 am, demanding a minimum wage of Tk12,500, an attendance bonus of Tk800, and better leave policies. Despite the factory’s closure announcement, the protests continued, with demonstrators blocking the Dhaka-Tangail highway and attempting to forcefully enter the closed factory.

In response, the Industrial Police, local law enforcement, and army personnel arrived at the scene, dispersing the workers and detaining three individuals who had entered the factory illegally.

Factory worker Abbas Uddin explained that the current minimum wage of Tk8,000 is insufficient to cover living expenses, prompting the demand for an increase. "We’ve been asking for Tk12,500 for a long time, but the management hasn’t responded," he said.

In a separate incident, workers of Seasons Dresses Limited in Tongi protested on the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway over three months of unpaid wages. Additionally, Golden Repeat Garments workers blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh road, demanding an increase in their attendance bonuses and presenting a 12-point list of demands.

Gazipur Industrial Police Inspector Nitai Chandra Sarkar reported that the situation has been brought under control, though some workers remain defiant, continuing to block highways despite management agreeing to meet several of their demands.

Authorities are actively seeking those responsible for the unrest, with reports of further detentions.

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