Workers protest by blocking Gazipur road over Eid bonus, other demands

Workers at Ismox Sweater factory in the Telipara area of Gazipur are protesting for Eid bonuses, a 25% production bonus, and other demands.

During the protest, workers blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway, leading to long traffic jams on both sides of the road. The protest started at 10.00am on Friday (March 14), and law enforcement officers are on-site to control the situation.

According to police and local sources, workers at Ismox Sweater in Telipara did not report to work at 8 AM on Friday and instead began protesting for Eid bonuses and other demands. They later staged a march and blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway.

Starting at 10 AM, the blockade resulted in heavy traffic congestion, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Many passengers were seen trying to walk or find alternative routes to reach their destinations.

The protesting workers, who claim that nearly 1,200 people are employed at the Ismox Sweater factory, said they have not received overtime, night shift allowances, maternity leave, or annual bonuses despite working for a long time. They also allege that their production rates are not calculated accurately. The workers are demanding Eid bonuses, overtime payments, the resignation of the GM, and 14 other demands.

Gazipur Industrial Zone-2 Police Superintendent AKM Zahidul Islam said, "Workers have protested and blocked the road over Eid bonuses and other demands. The Gazipur Metropolitan Police and Industrial Police are present at the scene to manage the situation."