Workers of TNZ Group have rejected a government-brokered offer of Tk 30 million as a partial settlement of their outstanding wages, demanding the full Tk 171.3 million owed to them. The dispute has escalated as employees from TNZ Apparels Ltd, Apparel Plus Eco Ltd, and Apparel Art Ltd continue their protest at Shrama Bhaban, where they have been demonstrating for the past five days.
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Workers’ Plight and Payment Discrepancy
According to the workers, they have received only Tk 10 million from the total outstanding amount, leaving a significant shortfall. The delayed payments have created financial distress, particularly with Eid approaching.
Breakdown of Outstanding Wages
| Payment Category | Amount (Tk Million) |
|---|---|
| Total Dues | 171.3 |
| Paid Amount | 10.0 |
| Government Offer | 30.0 |
| Outstanding Balance | 131.3 |
Government Intervention and Workers’ Response
Following a meeting with factory representatives and workers, Labour Secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman announced that three top officials of TNZ Group would remain in the custody of law enforcement agencies until the company’s owner returns from abroad.
He further stated that Tk 30 million would be arranged through the sale of company machinery before Eid. However, the workers swiftly rejected this proposal, insisting that they would continue their demonstrations until they receive full payment, including wages, Eid bonuses, and other entitlements.
Next Steps and Further Discussions
Labour Secretary Shafiquzzaman has scheduled another meeting on 8th April, after the Eid holidays, to discuss the TNZ Group’s financial situation and potential resolutions. However, with growing tensions and unwavering worker demands, a prolonged standoff remains a possibility.
The issue highlights the broader challenges faced by Bangladesh’s garment industry, where delayed wage payments and financial instability continue to be pressing concerns for factory workers. Ensuring timely wage disbursement and corporate accountability remains crucial in maintaining industrial harmony and workers’ welfare.