The government has instructed employers across various industries to ensure timely payment of salaries and bonuses to workers before the upcoming Eid holiday. State Minister for the Labour and Employment Ministry, Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, made this announcement during the 77th Tripartite Consultative Council (TCC) meeting held at the secretariat's conference room in the city. He emphasized the importance of employers adhering to these instructions and assured that employers have committed to fulfilling their obligations as directed by the government.
During the meeting, various topics were discussed, including salary disbursements, bonuses, and arrangements for Eid holidays. The state minister emphasized that Eid holidays for workers should not be shorter than government holidays, and decisions regarding leave should be made in consultation with factory workers' representatives. Additionally, employers were instructed not to terminate employees or shut down factories before Eid.
There is optimism that workers will not resort to street protests for salary bonuses this year, as efforts are being made to ensure timely payments before Eid commences. Representatives from both employers and labor organizations, including those from the ready-made garments (RMG) sector, attended the meeting.
However, concerns have been raised as at least 416 factories, including those associated with the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers Association (BKMEA), and Bangladesh Textile Mill Association (BTMA), may face challenges in paying wages and bonuses before Eid-ul-Fitr. To address potential issues, the Industrial Police held a meeting to discuss preparations and urged garment owners to explore alternative solutions in case of payment delays.
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