Published: 12:11 AM, 02 November 2026
Anarchy will be tackled with iron hands: Home Minister
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has warned that any attempt to create anarchy in industrial areas will be dealt with firmly, saying the government remains committed to protecting workers' rights and ensuring their welfare across the country.
Salahuddin Ahmed made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Secretariat yesterday following a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The Home Minister's comments came after violent clashes between readymade garment (RMG) workers and police erupted Sunday in Mirpur, Savar, Gazipur, and Ashulia. The workers took to the streets demanding a minimum monthly wage of Tk 30,000, calling for better pay and improved working conditions.
Addressing the ongoing unrest, Salahuddin Ahmed said the government maintains a humanitarian approach toward workers and recognizes the importance of addressing their concerns.
"The government upholds a very humanitarian approach to workers," he told reporters, emphasizing that the authorities are willing to consider the demands raised by garment workers.
He further stated that the government would seriously examine the workers' demands and take all necessary initiatives to ensure their overall welfare.
According to the Home Minister, the government is committed to improving the living standards of workers throughout Bangladesh and addressing issues affecting their livelihoods.
"All necessary initiatives will be taken for the overall welfare of workers across Bangladesh," he said.
However, Salahuddin Ahmed made it clear that the government's willingness to engage with workers would not extend to tolerating violence or disorder in industrial zones.
He warned that the authorities concerned would take strict action against anyone attempting to create anarchy, stressing that maintaining law and order in industrial areas remains a priority.
The clashes on Sunday raised fresh concerns about labor unrest in the country's vital garment industry, which plays a significant role in Bangladesh's economy and employs millions of workers.
The demand for a minimum monthly wage of Tk 30,000 has emerged as a major point of contention between workers and industry stakeholders. Workers have argued that higher wages are necessary to cope with rising living costs, while the government has indicated that their concerns will receive serious consideration.
The latest developments have also highlighted the importance of maintaining stability in industrial areas while ensuring that workers' grievances are addressed through constructive dialogue.
Salahuddin Ahmed's remarks suggest that the government intends to pursue a dual approach: taking steps to improve workers' welfare while retaining a firm stance against violence and disruption.
The government is expected to consider the workers' demands as it seeks to restore normalcy in the affected industrial areas and prevent further unrest.
