At least 1,868 workers from three factories under the Al-Muslim Group staged a protest on Saturday morning, blocking the Dhaka-Aricha highway after discovering they had been laid off following the Eid-ul-Adha holidays
The unrest began around 8 am when workers gathered in front of AKM Knitwear Ltd in the Ulail area and subsequently blocked the Dhaka-bound lane for nearly 90 minutes, causing severe traffic congestion and public hardship.
According to factory authorities, 1,286 workers were laid off from AKM Knitwear Ltd, 529 from Pacific Blue Jeans Wear, and 53 from Al-Muslim Apparels. Many employees discovered their dismissal only after returning from the Eid-ul-Adha holidays, with some barred from entering the factories and others notified via mobile messages.
Protesting workers claimed they had received no prior notice and alleged that their compensation and legal entitlements were not properly settled, raising serious concerns about their financial security.
Md Abu Raihan, deputy general manager (administration) of Al-Muslim Group, said the layoffs were carried out under Section 20 of the Bangladesh Labour Act and blamed a recession and declining export orders. He added that workers’ dues had been paid and remaining claims would be verified and settled.
Police deployed a large force from the Industrial Police and general police, including water cannons and armoured vehicles, to control the situation. Superintendent of Police (Industrial Police-1) Mominul Islam Bhuiyan said officers managed to persuade the workers to clear the highway following discussions.
The road has since reopened, but tensions remain high across the industrial belt. Negotiations are ongoing to reach a formal agreement between management and the workers.
