The closure of some firms, which he attributed to poor management and money diversion by some owners, cannot be blamed to the government, according to Labor and Employment Advisor Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain.

To divert money, some people have started industrial businesses. Those who neglected to pay their employees, took out bank loans, and laundered money overseas have now left the nation. Some factories have closed as a result. “Factory closures are not my (the government’s) responsibility,” he declared.

He delivered his comments today (2 August) at 11:30am while addressing officers and staff from the Department of Labour, along with trade union leaders, at the National Occupational Safety and Health Training and Research Institute in Rajshahi. During the event, he also distributed cheques to workers.

The advisor noted that the country’s export earnings have increased by 7% to 8% thanks to the ongoing operation of well-managed factories.

“Responsible owners have remained in the country and are taking care of their employees. They are conducting successful businesses,” he remarked.

In response to worker protests, he stated, “Workers’ demands are limitless. They certainly have the right to protest. Anyone can take to the streets to voice their demands. I have demands too, and I can also take to the streets.”

Regarding trade union elections, he commented, “Once an individual wins an election, they often wish to remain in power indefinitely. This has been observed in the past. I hope such practices will cease. The emergence of capable representatives through elections should commence.”

The advisor had earlier opened the nation’s first research conference on occupational safety and health at the institute.
He discussed the absence of health and safety regulations in certain industries in his inaugural address.

“It is quite cruel that tea estates lack sanitary facilities. The female employees there are developing cancer as a result of this. Additionally, there is no access to drinking water in such places,” he stated.