79 factories announce closure amid workers protests

At least 79 factories in Ashulia, located from Baipail to Zirabo, remained closed on Monday amid the workers' ongoing protests.

Md Sarwar Alam, superintendent of Industrial Police-1, confirmed the matter to Views Bangladesh. However, factories in other areas of Ashulia remained operational until 11am.

The industrial police, army, RAB, BGB, and other law enforcement agencies are maintaining a strong presence to ensure security in the area.

BGMEA sources said they have information on factories of 68 groups/companies remaining closed in the region, including Ananta, Sharmin, Hamim, and Sterling Group on the "leave with pay" policy.

Workers from another 13 factories that remained open have left without working on Monday.

Moreover, workers of at least eight factories caused distress inside the factory premises. These factories are Mandal Knitwear, Natural Denim, Knit Composite, Radiance Jeans, Radiance Fashion, Garments Export Village, Bravo Apparels Limited, and Prince Jacquard Sweater Limited.

Workers said the owners last night (8 September) announced a general holiday for today and put up notices in front of the factories.

Some factories put up notices the morning. Workers went to the factories in the morning, found the closure notices, and returned home.

It is to be noted that RMG workers' protests erupted on 29 August when they began demanding various changes from the garment factory owners, including the recruitment of an equal number of men and women, increased salaries and other benefits, and reduced workloads.