Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has announced the reopening of closed factories at a rally held in Nayapaltan, the capital, on the occasion of International Workers’ Day (May Day).

He made this announcement on Friday (May 1) afternoon while delivering the chief guest’s speech at the rally organized by Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, the labour wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. The rally was presided over by Anwar Hossain, president of Sramik Dal. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, and Secretary General of BNP, delivered a speech as a special guest.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that previous ruling groups have trifled with the fate of workers. He alleged that during autocratic and fascist rule, people of all classes and professions, including workers, were deprived of their legitimate rights, and the economy was damaged through plunder.

Highlighting various initiatives for worker welfare, he announced the introduction of ‘Family Cards’ for workers’ families. Additionally, loans up to BDT 10,000 have been waived for farmers, and work is underway to introduce ‘Farmer Cards’.

Emphasizing rural development, the Prime Minister noted that most people in the country live in villages but do not receive adequate water at the right time. To solve this problem, canal excavation activities have been initiated.

He further stated that merely evicting hawkers is not enough; alternative employment opportunities must be arranged for them. He remarked that the overall development of the country would accelerate if the living standards of working-class people are improved.

Leaders at the rally emphasized ensuring workers’ rights and increasing employment.