Bidi makers, tobacco farmers demand alternative jobs

A bill suggesting Tk 50 fine for smoking at public places was placed in the JS to discourage smoking.

Speakers at the rally held at Haragachh High School ground said over one lakh Bidi factory workers and tobacco farmers will be affected if the bill is passed.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

It was addressed by, among others, Khalequzzaman Bhuiyan, secretary of Haragachh Bidi Workers Union and its leaders Moharaj, Mamun and Zadu.

They said a large number of people in Haragachh, Gangachara, and Kounia upazilas are dependent on Bidi-making.

If the government passes the law, theywill be jobless. Kkalequzzaman told in the rally that they would welcome the government decision to restrict use of tobacco, but before that alternative sources of income should be created for Bidi makers and tobacco farmers.

Amin Uddin said the government was urged earlier to create alternative avenues but it did not take up any programme.

"We will paralyze Rangpur after five days if the government does not announce any programme for Bidi workers", Amin Uddin said.