Labour and Employment Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan on Wednesday has stated that the first beneficiaries of the independence earned through shedding blood should be the working people in the country.
He emphasized that the hard work of garment sector workers and labourers has allowed the country to endure rampant plundering and corruption.
The government planned to initiate pension scheme for readymade (RMG) workers to ensure their financial security after retirement, said the adviser.
“I have a dream to introduce the pension scheme for RMG workers the under Social Safety Program so that they can lead a bit relaxed life after the retirement. We will be able to do so in cooperation with all stakeholders,” he said.
He mentioned that the cooperation of employers will be essential for the successful implementation of the pension scheme.
He highlighted that during the liberation struggle, which was supported by students, workers, and the masses, labourers also shed blood.
According to available information, nearly a hundred workers from various sectors have been martyred.
He said this while inaugurating the sales program of essentials under the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) at reasonable prices on the premises of a garment factory in Tongi.
Among the essential items offered are 5 kg of rice, 2 kg of oil, and 2 kg of lentils. An amount of Tk470 will be deducted from the monthly wages of workers to cover the cost of TCB products.
On this day, TCB products were distributed to 1,000 workers at the factory, and the program will gradually include the remaining 13,000 workers.
He further noted that since taking on the role, they have faced numerous challenges, including significant flooding that has affected almost half the country. Despite these challenges, rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. He welcomed the democratic environment that has emerged after 16 years, allowing for democratic rights and freedom of expression. Workers have also brought their demands to their attention, and outsiders have been causing unrest in labor regions.
Asif mentioned that they have repeatedly met with labour leaders and stakeholders, including employers. The implementation of those demands from the workers’ 18-point charter that can be resolved quickly is currently in progress. To address the workers' demand for rationing, they have started providing essential goods at lower prices through TCB in labor areas, and they aim to expand TCB’s operations in all labor-intensive regions soon.
He addressed garment owners, saying that if they prioritize the well-being of workers, their businesses will also prosper, and the government can advocate for them with international buyers. When issues regarding workers arise, being able to assure buyers will encourage more of them to consider coming to Bangladesh. He thanked garment owners for their patience in sustaining the sector despite significant changes
