The readymade garment (RMG) factory owners have decided to resume production on Thursday after the government assured them of keeping the factories secured.
This decision came in a meeting held Wednesday among sector apex body Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) leaders, factory owners and law enforcement agencies.
Announcing the decision at a press conference, BGMEA President Khandaker Rafiqul Islam said, “So far, 167 factories in Ashulia, Savar and some in Gazipur announced shutdown following the ongoing illegal unrest, and owners want factory security.
“The government has assured us they will provide security, and a joint raid, led by the Bangladesh Army, will begin tonight [Wednesday night].”
Rafiqul added, “No workers are not involved in the protests, and they [workers] are trying to protect factories. But the outsiders, who have ill motives, are trying to create anarchy.”
BGMEA Senior Vice President Abdullah Hil Rakib said in the press conference, “Jhut traders, political activists, and other vested quarters are involved in the so-called protest. They are not only trying to destabilise the RMG sector, but to create instability throughout the country.
“When factories manage to fend off one group of outsiders, large numbers often arrive to launch follow-up attacks, leading to factory closures.”
The BGMEA has requested the chief adviser's intervention to safeguard the industry and the economy. The apex trade body is hopeful that Dr Yunus will communicate with law enforcement agencies to address the activities of these outsider groups.
