Tazreen victims yet to be compensated

The majority of the families of Tazreen victims are yet to receive compensation more than two months after the tragic incident, owing to hold-ups in the identification procedure.

To date, only 43 of the 112 deceased's families were given compensation of Tk 6 lakh each, on December 4.

“We did not receive any compensation from anybody. We have contacted the BGMEA [Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association] and other sources, but no one gave us anything,” said Rashida Akter, widow of Aynal Hossain.

Hossain, a senior sewing operator, died in the fatal fire at the Tazreen premises on November 24, along with at least 111 others.

“We identified his body right after the incident and buried him the following morning. Maybe we did not receive any compensation, as we buried him immediately,” Akter said.

Jamila Khatun, Hossain's mother, too, did not receive anything from the BGMEA or the government.

Similarly, Lalchand, a quality inspector at the factory, severely injured in the fire, also did not receive any compensation.

“Many workers who survived like me did not get the promised compensation,” Lalchand said.

Bakul, husband of the severely injured Rehana, also claimed that his wife did not receive anything.

“But many injured workers got Tk 1l lakh as compensation,” he added.

Nazma Akter, president of Sammilito Garment Sramik Federation, a platform for garment workers, said she identified at least 100 workers and forwarded the names to BGMEA for compensation.

“This is true that many injured workers did not receive compensation. But, they can contact the trade body leaders so that we can demand it from the BGMEA and the government -- on their behalf.”

Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin, president of BGMEA, said cheques have been prepared for the victims' families.

“We are waiting on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as the cheques would be handed over by her. As soon as she gives us a timeslot, we will organise the event.”

The BGMEA president then went on to reassure that all will be compensated.

“Some victims' DNA could not be verified yet, but by all means we will identify them. Everyone will get the compensation.”

reefat@thedailystar.net