Protests continue against Rangpur Sugar Mill lay-off

Employees and workers of Rangpur Sugar Mills in a procession in the mill area protesting proposed lay-off of the mill (left) and some of the employees wearing black cloths with words written that they are prepared to die to save the mill. Star photo

Several thousand employees, labours and sugar cane growers continued rallies on the mill premises and processions in the area protesting the decision.

Leaders of the mill's workers union at a press conferences recently claimed that the Ministry of Industries on May 21 gave a proposal to the Ministry of Finance to release Tk 20.18 crore for payments to 1120 employees prior to the lay-off.

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They declared that they would intensify their movement against the proposed lay-off.

They said the mill, set up in 1954, is the only heavy industry in Gaibandha district. Nearly 40 lakh people includng 2000 employees and workers, 35000 sugar cane growers and 2000 businessmen are linked with the mill. Its lay-off will adversely affect the socio-economic condition of the district, they said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Sugar Mills Labour Federation extended all out support to movement against the proposed lay-off, sources said.

When contacted, MMZ Haider, General Manager (Administration) of the mill, said he has not yet received any letter from higher authorities regarding lay-off.