BAT Kushtia leaf factory workers stage sit-in over 22-point demand
If demands are not met, they plan another sit-in
Seasonal workers of the British American Tobacco (BAT) Kushtia Leaf Factory staged a sit-in in front of the factory to press home their 22-point demands, including issuance of appointment letters and settlement of provident fund and gratuity.
The demands include payment of due profit shares since 2012 and reinstatement of workers unlawfully kept outside employment, all in accordance with the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006.
The workers began their programme this morning (23 April) near the Chowrhas intersection, Kushtia, and continued the demonstration at 4pm.
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Agitating workers said if their demands are not met through a peaceful programme, they, along with family members, will stage another sit-in in front of the factory.
During the protest, workers marched around the factory with banners and festoons, then gathered at the main gate to chant slogans, occupying nearly half a kilometre of road with their demands.
Protesting workers said they want the company to fulfil their 22-point demands, including payment of due profit shares since 2012, settlement of provident fund and gratuity, issuance of appointment letters, and reinstatement of workers unlawfully kept outside employment – all in accordance with the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006.
They stated that, following the 22-point demand raised by the seasonal workers of the factory, the Ministry of Labour and Employment issued a directive on 17 April 2025.
In a letter signed by Deputy Secretary Nilufa Yasmin, the plant manager of the GLT Plant was instructed to take action within three working days (by 22 April) to address the workers' demands.
However, despite the three-day deadline set by the ministry, BAT officials have ignored the directive. Instead, they are preparing to launch the new tobacco season today, the workers said.
According to the notice from the ministry, the company was ordered to reinstate a total of 144 seasonal workers – including 128 current seasonal workers, five who were terminated in 2023, and 11 dismissed in 2024 – by 22 April, before the start of the new season.
