The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has taken a tough stance against processions, gatherings, and media statements made during office hours by its officials and employees following the High Court verdict on the writ petition related to the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) project.
In a notification issued on Thursday, CPA Director (Administration) Md Omar Faruk warned that such activities constitute professional misconduct and are punishable offences under existing laws and service rules. All concerned have been instructed to completely refrain from similar actions in the future, failing which disciplinary measures will be taken.
According to the letter, on Thursday around 11:30am, a group of CPA employees participated in processions and gatherings inside the Port Building, foyer, and surrounding areas during office hours. During these activities, they reportedly made adverse remarks against the High Court verdict on the NCT-related writ petition, creating disorder and chaos within the port premises.
The writ petition was filed by Mirza Walid Hossain, president of the Bangladesh Young Economists Forum, challenging the legality of transferring NCT operations to a foreign company. On Thursday afternoon, a single bench of the High Court, presided over by Justice Zafar Ahmed, dismissed the writ.
Following the verdict, tensions escalated among port workers. Several hundred leaders and activists of the Jatiyotabadi Sromik Dal, Chattogram Port Unit, staged protests at the Port Building on Thursday afternoon. Later in the day, further demonstrations were held, during which the workers announced an eight-hour strike scheduled for 31 January and 1 February.
In its notification, the CPA stated that some employees were involved in protests, meetings, and processions opposing the government’s decision, and also made statements to the media and posted comments on social media platforms.
The authority said these actions clearly violate the Crimes Disrupting Law and Order (Speedy Trial) Act, 2002, Chittagong Port Employees Service Regulations, 1991, Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1979, Government Employees (Regular Attendance) Rules, 2019, and other relevant government circulars.
The CPA further noted that such activities are hampering normal port operations and are contrary to national interest. It also mentioned that officers and employees had been warned earlier about engaging in such activities.
