Gazipur Garment Workers Block Dhaka-Tangail Highway

Workers of Master Cham Industries Limited blocked the Dhaka-Tangail highway in Gazipur on Saturday morning, protesting low annual increments and several other service-related grievances.

The protest began around 11:30 AM at the factory in the Naojor area. According to workers and police, the unrest was sparked when employees noticed their February salary increments were significantly lower than expected. In response, workers halted production and gathered under the Naojor flyover, bringing traffic to a standstill.

Upon receiving the news, Gazipur Industrial Police and Basan Police arrived at the scene. After brief negotiations, the authorities persuaded the workers to clear the road by 12:00 PM. The blockade disrupted vehicle movement for approximately 30 minutes.

The workers have presented a 10-point demand list to the management.

• Standardizing annual increments.

• Payment of three months' salary arrears.

• Mandatory overtime pay for work after 5:00 PM.

• Annual bonuses equivalent to half of the basic salary.

• Timely payment within seven working days of each month.

• Improved professional conduct toward staff.

• Severance pay amounting to three months' salary upon resignation.

Harun Or Rashid, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Basan Police Station, stated that the situation is currently under control. "We have moved the workers off the highway and advised them to resolve their grievances through formal discussions with the factory owners," he said.