Signs of calm in RMG sector

A semblance of normalcy returned to the garment sector yesterday after a six-day unrest by the workers frustrated over the minimum wages announced Thursday.
The workers joined their duties as usual at about 8 in the morning without showing signs of resentment or protests, according to the police. There was no demonstration on the street in the industrial hubs like Ashulia and Nayaranganj.
The government's announcement of the minimum wage at Tk 3,000 dissatisfied the apparel workers who vandalised garment factories and other offices.
Manwar Hossain, assistant superintendent of police (ASP) and in-charge of Savar circle, reported no untoward incident since resumption of work at different factories yesterday.
"Normal environment has restored at Ashulia industrial zone. Members of the law enforcing agencies are on vigilance to control any possible unrest in this particular area," Hossain said.
Amirul Haque Amin, president of National Garment Workers Federation, said normalcy returned in the garment sector as production resumed.
He said workers of two garment factories at the city's Uttara area observed work stoppage for a brief period in the morning, but later they joined their duties.
"I hope the working environment will improve further as all stakeholders including trade unions leaders are communicating with the workers for not going for unrest," said Amin, who represented 42 trade unions at an informal tripartite agreement at BGMEA on Sunday.
Nazma Akter, president of Sammilito Garment Sramik Federation, said the situation started improving as workers returned to work.
Abdus Salam Murshedy, president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, also reported of a peaceful environment in the garment sector.
[email protected]