3 Cops, 50 Garment Workers Injured in Clash Over Demo

At least 50 people, including three police officers, were injured in a violent clash between law enforcement and garment workers on Tuesday. The unrest erupted in front of the Secretariat as workers from various garment factories protested over unpaid salaries, dues, and benefits.
According to Mohammad Khalid Mansur, the Officer-in-Charge of Shahbagh Police Station, around 500 workers from factories such as TNZ Apparels, Apparel Plus Echo Ltd, Roar Fashion Ltd, Style Craft Garments, and others gathered at Jatiya Press Club at noon. The workers were demanding the payment of their overdue salaries, Eid bonuses, and maternity leave entitlements.

The situation turned tense when the workers attempted to march toward the Ministry of Labour. Police blocked their path near Link Road, close to the Secretariat, which sparked a violent confrontation. In retaliation, the workers hurled bricks at the police, prompting law enforcement to respond with sound grenades and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

As the situation escalated, 50 individuals, including three policemen, sustained injuries. The injured were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, including the three officers, as confirmed by OC Khalid. Ruhul Amin, the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Garments and Sweaters Workers Union, claimed that around 40 workers were injured during the clash and warned that the protests would continue until their demands were fully addressed.

The clashes also caused significant traffic disruptions in the Paltan intersection and surrounding areas, further adding to the chaos. Meanwhile, in a related development, an adviser to the government has issued a stern warning to RMG factory owners, demanding they pay workers by March 27 or face a travel ban.

The unrest highlights growing discontent among workers in the garment sector, as they push for timely payment of their dues and better working conditions.