Jatiyo Sramik Federation calls for Tk20,000 minimum wage

Leaders of the Jatiya Sramik Federation have urged the government to increase the monthly minimum wage for labourers to Tk20,000. 

Besides, they demanded sustainable livelihood solutions, including food and cash assistance, for those who have lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic, said a press release. 

They pressed home their demands in simultaneous events, one at the National Press Club and another at the Ashulia Press Club, marking the International Workers' Day. 

The informal sectors of the country that consist of 85% labourers and keep the rural economy afloat have fallen victim to pandemic blues.  

Speakers noted that owners of many factories and establishments failed to pay the wages of the workers and employees, while the formal sectors faced the blows of job loss, lay-offs and pay cuts.

They criticised the industry owners for putting workers' lives at risk as they resumed production activities without providing health care and transportation facilities.

The labour leaders also voiced their demand for vaccinating workers on a priority basis.

They demanded judicial investigation and trial into the killing of workers in the Banshkhali shooting and exemplary punishment to the culprits.

M Delwar Hossain, Anwar Ali, Shahana Ferdousi Lucky, Nazrul Islam, Arifa Akhter and other central leaders of the federation spoke at the rally in front of the National Press Club.