Ctg yarn factory workers stage demo for better wages, benefits
The protest began at around 8am in front of the factory premises, as workers refrained from reporting for their duties
Around 400 workers of Modern Syntex Limited, a yarn manufacturing factory located in the Mirsarai National Special Economic Zone of Chattogram, staged a daylong protest today (10 May), demanding better wages, benefits and improved working conditions.
The protest began at around 8am in front of the factory premises, as workers refrained from reporting for their duties.
Demonstrators voiced grievances over wage disparities, insufficient manpower, denial of holidays, and lack of basic facilities like lunch provisions. The agitation continued into the afternoon, severely disrupting factory operations.
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Their 14-point demand includes a minimum monthly salary of Tk18,000 for all junior operators, immediate implementation and disbursement of pending salary increments, Eid bonuses for all workers, providing public holidays, arranging lunch by the authorities, an increase in manpower and an end to all forms of harassment of workers.
The management of Modern Syntex, which currently employs approximately 1,100 workers, alleged that the protest came without prior notice and that an immediate resolution to all the demands would not be feasible.
Shafal Barua, general manager of the factory, said, "We were not officially informed about the protest beforehand. The workers went on strike suddenly this morning. They gave us only half an hour to respond. Decisions of this scale require proper discussion and planning."
He added, "We are open to dialogue. Workers should come forward to discuss the issues at a designated time. This company's growth depends on mutual cooperation."
