Garment leaders have rejected the Tk 5,300 minimum wage for readymade garment workers recommended by the government-appointed wage board, citing their ‘inability’ to pay that much.
The wage board members finalised the minimum wage through votes on Monday.
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association President Atiqul Islam said, “We are rejecting this proposal. Our industry has not yet achieved the capacity to pay such a salary.”
Workers’ representatives had earlier sought a minimum wage of Tk 8,000, according to the wage board Chairman AK Roy.
They later scaled down the sum to Tk 6,000, and Tk 5,500 before and finally agreeing to to Tk 5,300.
On the other hand, the garment owners’ primary offer of minimum wage was Tk 3,600, which they raised to 4,250 later.
“Owners remained unyielding on their proposal of a minimum wage of Tk 4,250. I was compelled to have the issue resolved through votes in line with the minimum wage rules-1961,” said Roy.
Garment owners walked out of the meeting when it was decided that the issue would be settled through voting. Finally, the wage was fixed at 5,300 on four:two votes.
Former BGMEA President Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin attended the meeting as an observer, but refused to comment on the matter.
“Garment prices have dropped in the international market. Our money is gaining against the dollar. It would be comparable to committing suicide if we are compelled to follow this decision,” said BGMEA chief Atiqul.
He said leaders of the BGMEA and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association would have a meeting on Tuesday to decide their next move.
They will brief the press only after a decision is taken.
The proposed minimum wage included Tk 3,200 as basic salary, Tk 1,280 as house rent, Tk 320 as medical allowance, Tk 200 for conveyance and Tk 300 as food subsidy.
As per the law, the wage board now has to publish its decision through a gazette notification.
Parties concerned have 14 days to give their opinion. On the 15 day, the board will sit again to forward its proposal to the ministry.
The government will issue an order once the ministry approves the recommendation.
Source: Bd news24
