Timely wages, bonuses ensure stress-free Eid for workers: PM adviser

Workers across the country have received their wages and Eid bonuses on time this year, ensuring a smooth and stress-free Eid, said Prime Minister's Adviser Mahdi Amin.

In a Facebook post on Friday night, he said, "For many years, a familiar picture would emerge before Eid, with a sense of anxiety across the country. Labour unrest, unpaid wages, road blockades and uncertainty over returning home had almost become the norm."

However, Mahdi said the situation has changed this year, with most workers in export-oriented industries, including the garment sector, receiving their salaries and bonuses in advance. "Smile of relief and satisfaction can be seen on the faces of working people."

He said said almost all factories paid February wages and Eid bonuses in a peaceful and stable environment, while many export-oriented factories also paid a significant portion of March salaries.

Mahdi said the progress was achieved under the guidance and close monitoring of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, along with active involvement of the labour and employment ministry and coordinated efforts by officials.

"Behind these unprecedented efforts were continuous discussions with key stakeholders, coordinated planning, responsibility and accountability, he said. 

The adviser said police, administration, intelligence agencies, BGMEA, BKMEA, trade associations, workers' organisations, various government bodies and local political leaders worked together to ensure that no worker was deprived of their rightful dues and that no one's Eid joy was disrupted.

He said a series of measures — including tripartite meetings among the government, workers and employ ers, identification of high-risk factories, separate strategies for troubled factories, formation of field-level monitoring teams, emergency coordination meetings and regular data-driven decisions—played effective roles in maintaining stability.

At the same time, the adviser said through coordination with Bangladesh Bank and other financial institutions, necessary loans and financial support were arranged to clear outstanding wages and bonuses.

As a result, Mahdi said workers were able to return home smoothly and with peace of mind. "The joy of returning to their families in a festive atmosphere reflects not only personal happiness but also a collective sense of care and commitment."

He said the government, elected by the people, is following worker-friendly policies and remains deeply committed to Bangladeshi workers both at home and abroad. 

Amid ongoing instability in the Middle East, Mahdi said  the government has been actively working from the beginning to ensure the safety and necessary support for Bangladeshi expatriates.

"The compassion and commitment of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government towards every working person will continue, Insha'Allah," he added.