One RMG worker killed in Savar clash over minimum wage

Savar, Jan 8 – A readymade garment (RMG) worker was killed and 30 others were injured in clashes with policemen during demonstrations at Hemayetpur on Tuesday. They have been demanding cancellation of what they call a ‘discriminatory wage board’ announced by the government for them.
Victim’s colleagues said they found Sumon Mia, 22, hit by a bullet at Ulaill area and rushed him to Savar Upazila health complex where the doctor declared him dead.
Savar Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Amzadul Hoque said Sumon died while undergoing treatment after admission in the afternoon. He was admitted in the health complex with a critical bullet injury to his chest, the officer added.
On the other hand, three workers Shamser, Akhi Begum and Rubi Begum were admitted to Enam Medical College and Hospital with bullet injury, said Dr Nasir Uddin, in-charge of Operation Theatre of the hospital.
Abdul Awal, officer-in-charge of Savar Model Police Station, said they could not yet confirm this death. No such incident took place, he demanded.
On Tuesday morning, the workers of Shams Style Wears Limited factory abstained from work and demonstrated at Padmar Mor area. They were soon joined by workers from some other nearby RMG factories, said police and protesters.
They tried to block the Hemayetpur-Shyampur road with burning tyres but police chased them, triggering a running battle. Gunshots were also reported during the clashes. Police charged batons and used water cannons on the workers to disperse them. – UNB