Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) M Sakhawat Hossain announced on Thursday that 14 units of Beximco Industrial Park have been shut down, with worker payments set to begin on 9 March.
Speaking at a press conference on the labour and business situation of Beximco Industrial Park, he stated that the decision was made following a meeting of the advisory council committee.
“The authorities are not against the workers. We never wanted anyone to lose their jobs, and we still don’t. Even in the future, that will not be our intention,” he assured.
To settle outstanding dues, a total of Tk 525.46 crore will be required for 31,669 workers and 1,565 officials of the closed units. Payments will start from 9 March, with all dues expected to be cleared before mid-Ramadan.
Addressing financial difficulties, Sakhawat Hossain revealed that banks had refused to provide funds, forcing alternative arrangements.
“All banks declined to support us, but we have secured the required amount. InshaAllah, payments will begin as scheduled,” he said.
The funding will come from two sources: Tk325.46 crore from the Finance Division, and Tk200 crore as a loan from the Labour Ministry, to be later replaced by the Bangladesh Bank.
A committee, led by Lutfey Siddique, the chief adviser’s special envoy on International Affairs, has been formed to decide the next steps regarding the closed industrial units. Urging workers to stay calm, Sakhawat Hossain requested them to avoid protests that might force stricter measures.
“We don’t want to take tough action against anyone. Please understand the situation. You are all patriots, and I will personally reach out to many of you at the right time,” he added. Workers were urged to maintain peace and cooperation to prevent any further disruptions.
