Bangladesh army and police launched a joint operation last night in Savar, Ashulia, and Gazipur to restore order after over 100 apparel factories were forced to shut down due to protests and attacks by outsiders and workers over various demands.
According to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), about 45 factories in Gazipur and 59 in Savar and Ashulia were closed due to protests. The demonstrators blocked roads, vandalized three factories, and looted at least two others. Initially, outsiders demanded jobs and, when denied, resorted to vandalism. Workers from nearby factories later joined the protests.
BGMEA and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) leaders met with Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, who approved joint operations to address the unrest.
BGMEA officials believe political figures may be inciting the violence. Unlike past protests, these demonstrators are not demanding wage hikes or overdue payments but are calling for reduced workloads, the cessation of undue terminations, and increased allowances.
Industrial Police report that initial protests started with demands for employment, escalating when workers joined with additional demands. The BGMEA President stated that the Home Adviser directed immediate action to restore order, urging factory owners to keep operations running despite the turmoil.
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