Suppliers stage protest demanding dues from Dahmashi Jute Industries in Faridpur

Suppliers of Dahmashi Jute Industries Limited in Madhukhali, Faridpur, formed a human chain and staged a one-hour sit-in today (24 February), demanding immediate payment of their outstanding dues.

A total of 39 suppliers took part in the protest in front of the mill's main gate, alleging that they are facing severe financial hardship due to unpaid bills.

Golam Kabir, a supplier, claimed, "The mill owner, Noman Chowdhury, has been delaying payment of Tk22 crore owed to 39 suppliers since 2020. Although small portions were paid in instalments, most of the dues remain unpaid."

He further said the mill was recently handed over to another group, which has created uncertainty over the recovery of the remaining payments.

Despite repeated communication with both the previous authorities and representatives of the new group, the suppliers have not received a satisfactory response.

"We were compelled to take to the streets," he said.

The protesters warned that if their dues are not cleared promptly or if they do not receive a clear assurance, they will announce tougher action programmes in the coming days.

After the human chain, demonstrators symbolically blocked the main gate of the mill as part of their protest.

Among those present were Golam Kibria, Amit Saha, Biplob Pal, Mohammad Razzak, Mohammad Zakir, Adam Ali, Bishnupada Saha, Md Ashraful, Md Khayer, Shahiduzzaman, Nasir Uddin, Mohammad Abdur Razzak and others.

Despite repeated attempts, TBS could not reach the mill authorities for comment regarding the allegations.