Sramik-Karmachari Oikya Parishad declares protest against NCT lease, Rakhine corridor rumours
The Sramik-Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP) has announced a mass movement opposing the government's decision to lease Chattogram Port Authority's New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to foreign firm DP World, alongside expressing concern over rumours of a proposed 'humanitarian corridor' in Myanmar's Rakhine State.
At an emergency press conference held Tuesday (17 June) in Chattogram, SKOP leaders warned that leasing the country's most advanced and strategically significant terminal would compromise national sovereignty and economic security.
Built and operated with the Port Authority's own resources, NCT currently handles a significant portion of Bangladesh's container traffic. Union leaders fear that foreign control could shift the management of nearly 45% of this capacity abroad.
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Presenting a written statement, AM Nazim Uddin, president of the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal (Chattogram Division), criticised the government for neglecting public opinion on such a crucial issue. He also raised concerns about the use of the word "resist" in a recent speech by the Chief Adviser, calling it alarming for democratic values.
Referring to the Patenga terminal, which was handed over to Saudi operator Red Sea Gateway, SKOP noted a lack of progress, alleging that only 10–12% of the terminal's capacity is being utilised, raising questions over foreign efficiency and accountability.
SKOP placed six demands, including cancellation of the NCT lease, halting contract renewals with Saif Powertec, ensuring NCT remains under national management, assessing Patenga terminal's performance, shelving the corridor plan, and incorporating worker and public opinion in strategic decisions.
As part of its protest, SKOP announced a consultation with port stakeholders from 20 to 26 June, followed by a peaceful rally at the Chattogram Port gate on 30 June.
Labour leaders Tapan Dutta, Kazi Nurullah Bahar, and others addressed the media and responded to journalists' questions.
