Ctg Port orders action against staff over protests defying HC verdict on NCT deal

The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has initiated disciplinary action against a section of its employees accused of joining protests during office hours in defiance of a High Court verdict and government decisions on the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT).

The move follows renewed tension at the port after the High Court yesterday (29 January) upheld the legality of the government's decision to appoint a foreign operator for the NCT. Soon after the verdict, several port workers and officials allegedly staged protests inside the Port Building.

The Chattogram Port unit of Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal has also announced a two-day strike at the port today and tomorrow, demanding cancellation of the NCT deal. The Sramik Kormachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP) has expressed support for the strike and announced a black-flag procession towards the Port Building on Sunday.

In an official notice signed by Director (Administration) Omar Faruk, the CPA said that on yesterday at around 11:30am, a number of employees were absent from their assigned duties and took part in protests inside the port building and adjacent areas. The notice alleged that the protesters made derogatory remarks about the High Court verdict and openly opposed the ruling, actions described as a breach of official discipline.

Confirming the issuance of the notice, Omar Faruk told The Business Standard today, "This is disciplinary action in accordance with the rules."

Commenting on the strike call, he said, "A section of port workers has called the strike. Our security division is preparing to handle the situation."

The notice further alleged that participants circulated photos and videos of the demonstrations on social media and made statements to print and electronic media. Such activities, it said, amount to misconduct under the Chattogram Port Employees Service Regulations, 1991.

According to the port authority, participating in movements, meetings or rallies against government decisions while in service, and issuing statements or posts on media or social platforms, are punishable offences under sections 38(2)(a) and (b), 38(4) and 38(6) of the 1991 regulations. Employees, the notice added, had been warned on multiple occasions in the past over similar conduct.

The CPA also pointed out that the High Court, in its verdict on the NCT-related writ petition, upheld the legality of the government's contract process. As the issue remains under judicial consideration, all port employees have been instructed to refrain from any direct or indirect actions opposing the verdict. Failure to comply will result in action under existing laws and rules. 

The notice referred to a circular issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on 31 December 2024, directing all government employees to strictly follow the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1979, particularly Rule 30, to ensure discipline at all levels. It also cited several internal notices issued between December 2024 and January 2025 warning employees against sharing internal matters or confidential documents on social media and reiterating compliance with service regulations.

The director (administration) has asked the heads of the concerned departments to initiate departmental proceedings against those involved in line with the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1979, the Government Service Act, 2018, the Chattogram Port Employees Service Regulations, 1991, and the Government Employees (Regular Attendance) Rules, 2019.