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TL;DR
- Government to provide TCB products at fair prices to 40 lakh workers in industrial areas starting October 1
- Efforts made to address workers’ 18-point demands through tripartite discussions, with emphasis on implementing agreed-upon points
- Workers’ Welfare Foundation established for workers’ welfare, with Tk 1,026 crore currently deposited in the fund and Tk 141.66 crore assistance provided to 30,285 workers so far
- Action being taken against workers involved in criminal activities, while efforts are being made to resolve remaining worker dissatisfaction in a few places
The government will provide Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) products at fair prices to 40 lakh workers in industrial areas starting from October 1, according to Labour and Employment Adviser Asif Mahmud Sazib Bhuiyan.
Asif Mahmud stated that most problems can be solved if the current systems in the country are kept operational. Previously, efforts were made to address the 18-point demands of the workers through tripartite discussions. The government is emphasizing the implementation of the agreed-upon points.
Labour Secretary A H M Safiquzzaman mentioned that one of the 18 demands was to arrange rations for the workers. As per the meeting’s decision, the distribution of TCB products among workers will be inaugurated in Ashulia on October 1 (Tuesday). In addition to the existing coverage of one crore families, the number will be increased in labor-intensive (industrial) areas under TCB’s scope.
The adviser noted that the Workers’ Welfare Foundation was established for the welfare of workers. However, most workers in the country are unaware of the existence of such a fund for them and may not know the application process. There were various questions regarding the fund management. The issues related to the Workers’ Welfare Foundation fund will be investigated. So far, 30,285 workers have been provided with assistance amounting to Tk 141.66 crore. Currently, Tk 1,026 crore is deposited in the fund.
The adviser further stated that the foundation’s money belongs to the workers. Companies participate and deposit the money with the government as a trust. It should be delivered to the workers based on accountability and transparency.
Mentioning that solutions have been provided to the workers’ 18-point demands, the Labour Adviser said that emphasis is being placed on implementing the agreed-upon demands. Action is being taken where workers are involved in criminal activities. Efforts are being made to resolve the remaining worker dissatisfaction in a few places.
News Source: Ittefaq
