In the lead-up to Eid, Gazipur’s garment industry is facing unprecedented turmoil as worker protests over unpaid wages are being exploited by third-party agitators. Reports suggest that certain groups, including fugitive political activists, are infiltrating worker demonstrations to incite violence and sabotage.

Over the past few weeks, Gazipur has witnessed a series of worker protests, road blockades, factory vandalism, and arson attacks. These incidents, often triggered by rumors and misinformation, have caused significant damage to factories and disrupted public order. Despite efforts by law enforcement to control the situation, the damage has already been done.

Intelligence sources reveal that fugitive leaders and activists from banned political groups, including the Awami League, are hiding in Gazipur and using the worker unrest as a cover to carry out sabotage. These individuals are allegedly mingling with protesting workers, spreading false rumors, and escalating tensions.

For instance, on March 3, a worker’s suicide at Panorama Apparels Limited sparked rumors of negligence by factory management, leading to widespread vandalism and arson. Similarly, on March 11, workers at BHI Apparels Limited blocked the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway for four hours over unpaid wages, with reports of outsiders joining the protest to incite violence.

On March 12, a worker’s death in a road accident near Golden Refit Garments led to another highway blockade, with locals reporting the presence of outsiders among the protesters. The same pattern was observed on March 14 and 17, when workers at Smag Sweater and Mim Design factories blocked highways, allegedly influenced by external provocateurs.

A labor leader in Gazipur’s Konabari area told Desh Rupantor, “When workers are unhappy over unpaid wages, some overzealous individuals provoke them, making it difficult for us to control the situation.” Intelligence officials confirmed that these third-party groups often target multiple factories, forcing them to shut down or face vandalism.

Gazipur Industrial Police SP Zahirul Islam stated that factory owners have until March 20 to pay February wages, as agreed in a recent meeting between owners, workers, and BGMEA representatives. However, some factories are already facing protests, exacerbated by the involvement of outsiders. “We are closely monitoring the situation,” he assured.

As Eid approaches, the garment sector remains on edge, with workers demanding their dues and hidden forces seeking to exploit the unrest for their own agendas.