GM Quader, the Chairman of the Jatiya Party, has expressed his support for the ongoing movement led by garment (RMG) workers, who are advocating for an increase in the minimum wage from Taka 8,000 to Taka 23,000. According to a reports, GM Quader not only voiced his solidarity with the justifiable demand for a higher minimum wage but also urged the authorities to address the concerns of these workers.
In a statement bearing the signature of the party’s Press Secretary, Khandaker Delowar Jalali, GM Quader, who also serves as the deputy leader of the opposition party, stressed the significance of addressing the challenges faced by RMG workers. He highlighted the difficult lives led by these workers, who play a pivotal role in earning foreign currency for the country, and the lack of basic humanity in their circumstances. Recognizing the substantial contribution of RMG workers to the nation’s progress, GM Quader reportedly expressed regret over the discrimination they encounter in what is considered a civilized society.
GM Quader recounted the historical context of the RMG industry, where workers initially received meager compensation. Over the years, the minimum wage increased to Taka 5,300 following a movement in 2013 and further to Taka 8,000 in 2018, effective from Pohela Boishakh in 2019.
Expressing his solidarity with the ongoing movement, GM Quader reportedly emphasized that it has become increasingly challenging for individuals to sustain their lives with a wage of Taka 8,000, especially in the face of rising living costs.
He referred to a study conducted by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), which indicated that a four-member family requires Taka 22,421 per month for survival. In light of this, he reportedly called for the humane acceptance of the demand for a minimum wage of Taka 23,000. GM Quader reportedly concluded his statement by urging all individuals to display generosity and empathy toward RMG workers and their justifiable cause.
Photo Courtesy by : UNB
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