Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman on Friday underscored the need for harmonious relations between employers and workers, saying such balance is key to sustainable industrial growth.
He was addressing a May Day rally organised by the Bangladesh Sramik Kalyan Federation at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in the capital.
Shafiqur Rahman said discussions on labour rights are common throughout the year, but implementation often remains lacking.
He stressed that meaningful national development cannot be achieved without ensuring the welfare of workers.
He called for prioritising improved employer-worker relations to strengthen the country’s industrial sector.
The Jamaat chief also alleged that both local and migrant workers continue to face neglect.
Referring to expatriate workers, he said Bangladeshi missions abroad have a responsibility to protect their rights, but in many cases fail to do so.
He suggested that missions unable to safeguard workers’ interests should be reviewed.
Shafiqur Rahman said his party participates in parliament to raise issues concerning public rights rather than engage in historical debates.
He further alleged that while political leadership has changed over time, the overall condition of ordinary workers has seen little improvement.
He also criticised left-leaning groups, claiming they mobilise around labour issues but fail to ensure lasting benefits for workers.
