Savar, Jan 29 (V7N)- Workers at various tanneries in the BSCIC Leather Industry City, Savar, have gone on strike, demanding the immediate implementation of the government-announced minimum wage in five grades. The protest began at 10 AM on Wednesday (January 29), bringing tannery operations to a halt.

The protesting workers stated that while other industries swiftly implemented the new wage structure, tannery owners have delayed enforcement, citing various excuses. Frustrated by the lack of action, workers took to the streets to press their demands.

New Minimum Wage Structure for Tannery Workers:

Grade 1: Tk 34,168

Grade 2: Tk 28,388

Grade 3: Tk 24,002

Grade 4: Tk 20,993

Grade 5: Tk 18,001

Additional Demands Include:

  1. Strict enforcement of labor laws in every factory.
  2. Issuance of employment letters and photo ID cards to workers.
  3. Strengthening the inspection activities of the Department of Factories and Establishments.
  4. A ban on hiring temporary workers for permanent roles and the use of middlemen for recruitment.
  5. Protection against wrongful termination of long-serving workers.
  6. Establishment of a 50-bed hospital for workers.
  7. Introduction of low-cost canteens and housing facilities.
  8. Welfare provisions and workplace safety measures for female workers.
  9. Assurance of workers’ rights to form trade unions per ILO Conventions 87 and 98.
  10. Effective solid and liquid waste management to ensure social compliance in the tannery industry.

The workers have issued a 48-hour ultimatum, warning of tougher protests if their demands are not met within two days.

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