Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 1125 Mon. July 30, 2007  
   
Front Page


HR bodies ask govt not to shut down jute mills


An alliance of 17 human rights organisations urged the government to withdraw its decision to shut down four jute mills and axe 18,000 workers.

The coalition, Sramik Nirapatta Forum (SNF), in a statement yesterday also viewed that the government did not take any practical decision to save the jute industry.

It said the government ignored the recommendations of various quarters including the SNF to set up a national commission comprising experts from the public and private sectors and allocate Tk 300 crore for revitalising the jute sector.

The SNF urged the government to check corruption and mismanagement during sale and purchase of jute.

The alliance also urged the government to ensure that its allocation of Tk 200 crore for purchasing jute could reach to the mills' authorities in due time.

The SNF recommendations also include installation of gas generators in the mills for uninterrupted production and ensuring diversified uses of jute.

Meanwhile, Karmojibi Nari (KN), an organisation of workingwomen, also expressed concerns over the government decision to shut down the jute mills.

In a statement KN President Shirin Akhter and General Secretary Sharmin Kabir also urged the government to create employment for the laid off workers and rehabilitate their families.