Tannery workers stage demo in Savar demanding implementation of minimum wage

Tannery workers staged a protest and rally in Savar today (19 April) demanding the implementation of the government-declared minimum wage structure for the leather industry, which includes five separate pay grades.

The demonstration took place at noon in the Hemayetpur Leather Industrial Park.

Abul Kalam Azad, president of the Tannery Workers' Union, presided over the rally where representatives from various tanneries spoke.

During the protest, workers expressed frustration that the government-declared minimum wage structure has not yet been implemented in the sector. 

As a form of protest, they announced they would stop working overtime after regular hours starting at 5pm tomorrow if their demands remain unmet.

Labour leaders also warned of even tougher movements if the authorities fail to act.

Speaking to The Business Standard, Tannery Workers' Union General Secretary Abdul Malek said, "Our last meeting with the owners was on 22 March regarding the wage issue. Although there were talks of another meeting after Eid, it hasn't happened yet. The owners are just delaying the process."

Md Sakhawat Ullah, vice president of the Bangladesh Tanners Association, said, "Discussions with the workers on the wage issue are ongoing and have made considerable progress. In the middle of such discussions, announcing protests is unexpected."