RMG owners to face travel ban if salaries aren't paid by March 27: Adviser

The government has issued a warning to garment factory owners to pay workers' salaries by March 27 or face strict actions, including a potential travel ban, according to Adviser Brigadier General (retd) M Sakhawat Hussain on Tuesday.

"Legal action will be taken against those who fail to pay wages within the stipulated time," Sakhawat said at a press briefing at the Secretariat.

Criticising some factory owners, he said, "Many of them spend on luxury cars, Eid shopping and overseas trips while their workers struggle to receive wages in time. This is unacceptable."

He urged workers to speak up about their concerns, assuring them that authorities would intervene in cases of unjust demands from employers.

Sakhawat also revealed that 12 factories are facing various financial issues, with five of them having significant outstanding dues. "We are in discussions with them to resolve these matters," he added.

When asked about possible travel restrictions for factory owners, he said, "We will review payments after March 27 before making a decision on travel bans."

The announcement comes in response to increasing concerns over wage delays in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which employs millions and plays a crucial role in Bangladesh's economy.