Jatiya Sramik Shakti, the labour wing of NCP, has staged a protest demonstration and human chain at the foothills of Shahbagh July Memorial, protesting against the deaths of 14 workers at Ferdous Steel Shipbreaking Yard in Sitakunda, Chattogram.
Addressing the rally, Mazharul Islam Fakir, the convenor of Jatiya Sramik Shakti, demanded immediate arrest and trial of the factory owner. He alleged that the owner had “managed” the ruling party after committing “structural labour killings.”
“We did not want this state where corpses are bought and sold,” Fakir said. “Evicting hawkers, removing rickshaw workers, retrenching garment workers, and torturing labourers – this is the stance of the post-July BNP government!” he added.
The labour leader further warned that the working class is keeping a close watch. “If there is any attempt at trickery, we will take to the streets by uniting students, workers, and the general public,” he cautioned.
Ahmed Ishak, the joint convenor of the organisation, said no government can remain in power without the support of farmers and workers, and urged the authorities to establish justice for the working class.
Worker leader Wafi also spoke out against the government, saying the administration had advertised purchasing workers’ lives for Tk10 lakh. He argued that if a factory proposed to be closed by a government lawsuit can reopen by paying off government officials, then it is the government, and not the workers, that has been bought.
Moderated by Joint Convenor Rezaul Islam, the human chain was addressed by Joint Member Secretary Toufiq Uz Zaman Piracha, Senior Joint Chief Organiser Mamun Chakladar, and peasant leader Mahi Palash, who delivered a solidarity speech.
Other notable attendees included Obaidul Islam, Faridul Islam, July warrior Nahid, Shamim Hossain, Salauddin Salman, and Pritam Das.
From the human chain, Jatiya Sramik Shakti placed a three-point demand to end structural worker deaths, calling for proper compensation for the deceased workers of Ferdous Steel Shipbreaking Yard, a thorough investigation into the incident, and a trial to ensure justice.
They also urged the authorities to restore a safe working environment in all factories and to put an end to overtime work.
