TNZ workers block Srom Bhaban, demand unpaid wages, Eid bonus

The Srom Bhaban in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar was filled with chants early Monday morning as workers of TNZ Group gathered in protest.

By 8am, they had already blocked the main entrance with banners, barring officials from entering.

Hundreds of workers were seen standing on nearby roads, reports Bangla Tribune.

Many had stayed overnight after the government failed to respond to their demands for unpaid wages and Eid bonuses within a five-hour ultimatum. From the morning, others joined in with small processions.

The workers of TNZ Group on Sunday afternoon issued a five-hour ultimatum, warning of a "nationwide shutdown" if management fails to announce payment of outstanding wages and Eid bonuses within the stipulated time.

Labor leader Shahidul Islam delivered the announcement during the rally, which was also attended by leaders of various workers' organizations, as well as Nasiruddin Patwary, chief coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP).

Shahidul alleged that the government and administration are treating the workers unfairly.

He said they will not retreat until their demands are met.

Following the rally, several thousand workers held a procession that marched through Kakrail and Paltan intersections and adjacent roads.

Law enforcement personnel remained on alert during the demonstration.

Earlier on May 10, labour leaders held a press conference in front of Srom Bhaban, saying that all dues were supposed to be cleared by May 7.

However, they accused the factory owners of deceiving the workers, prompting them to return to the streets.

In line with that, workers held protests on May 11 in Gazipur and on May 12 again in front of Srom Bhaban.

Despite these demonstrations, the owners remained indifferent, and the government took no initiative either, according to the workers.