Female worker’s death sparks protest in Gazipur; RMG factory vandalised, vehicles torched

A large group of readymade garment factory workers in Gazipur this morning (3 March) demonstrated by blocking the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway, vandalising their factory, and torching some vehicles over the death of a female colleague.

Later, police and army personnel went to the spot and brought the situation somewhat under control.

Two versions regarding the death of the female worker, identified as Afsana Akhtar Laboni, 30, yesterday (2 March) have emerged.

The workers of Panorama Apparels Limited have alleged that Afsana died as factory authorities did not allow her to leave work after she fell sick while working.

On the other hand, police and factory officials have said that she died after jumping from the rooftop of the factory.

After Afsana was taken to Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College Hospital, the on-duty doctors declared her dead.

Workers of a RMG factory demonstrating on Dhaka-Mymensingh highway protesting the death of a female worker on 3 March 2025. Photo: UNB

Upon learning about the incident this morning, workers of the factory gathered at the Bhogra Bypass area and started demonstrating at around 8am. The agitated workers entered the factory compound later around 9:30am and vandalised it.

They even burnt tyres on the highway in front of the factory and set fire to two private cars and two motorcycles protesting the incident, police and factory officials said.

According to the workers, Afsana's family has already received her body.

Superintendent of Police Jahirul Islam of Gazipur Industrial Police said, "We have collected CCTV video footage from the factory authorities. The worker might have committed suicide due to personal reasons."

SP Jahirul added that a general holiday has been announced at 12 factories in the area as the workers of Panorama Apparels Limited went to some factories and tried to get in forcibly to include the other workers to their demonstration.

Contacted, Officer-in-charge of Basan police station Kaisar Ahmed said, "An unrest has been created over the death of a female RMG worker. We have detained the victim's husband for questioning. Legal steps will be taken if we receive any complaints."

Panorama Apparels' statement

Regarding the incident, Panorama Apparels Ltd released a statement saying, "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic death of one of our employees. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this tough time. In this difficult situation, we firmly stand by her family and are ready to provide any necessary support. We would also like to assure our full cooperation to conduct a thorough investigation of the incident and are prepared to assist the law enforcement authorities wherever required."

The statement further said, "However, it is very unfortunate for us that there are some misleading claims suggesting that her sick leave was denied, which is entirely false and fabricated. This tragic incident is in no way related to her work. The employee did not request any leave from the authorities." 

Panorama Apparels Ltd always prioritises the well-being of its employees, the company said, adding, "We strictly follow structured policies and standards, including those related to leave management. We respect the country's labour laws and strictly adhere to international labour standards. Since our establishment in 1991, we have been following honest, transparent, and ethical business practices, which have helped us earn the trust and confidence of all our stakeholders, including employees and buyers."

"Police mentioned in their initial investigation that it was a case of suicide. It could have been caused by a family dispute. We urge everyone to refrain from spreading misleading information, especially when the matter is under legal investigation. False and misleading claims can cause additional emotional distress to the grieving family and colleagues in the current circumstances," the statement reads.