Bangladesh Nationalist Workers’ Party Coordinator Advocates for Workers’ Rights, Highlights Role of Labor in Nation-Building

Dhaka, June 30 —
On Monday morning, Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul, Chief Coordinator of the Bangladesh Nationalist Workers’ Party and Chairman of AB Trust, handed over a detailed list of workers killed during the July uprising to Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Principal Adviser at the Ministry of Planning. The handover took place at the Ministry’s office in Agargaon, Dhaka.

Shimul, who also serves as a Special Assistant to BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, presented the list as part of an ongoing effort to document and honor the sacrifices made by laborers during the uprising. Alongside the list, a summary and declaration document from the Workers and Employees National Convention 2023 were also submitted.

Speaking about the handover, Shimul emphasized the pivotal role of the labor movement in Bangladesh’s socio-political landscape. “Among the martyrs of the July uprising, approximately 97 were active leaders and organizers affiliated with the United Workers’ Council and various labor parties,” he said. “In the ongoing process of rebuilding and reshaping Bangladesh, the working class stands as the fundamental force driving change.”

Shimul further highlighted the struggles faced by the working class, describing them as the backbone of the country whose labor keeps the nation running, yet who remain the most deprived and disenfranchised segment of society. “Our main objective is to unite these marginalized workers, bring smiles to their faces, and strive toward building a prosperous Bangladesh,” he said.

He announced plans for labor leaders to travel across the country to raise awareness and sustain momentum for the workers’ movement, emphasizing the importance of continuity in this struggle.

Several central leaders of the Workers’ Party were present during the event, reflecting the collective commitment to advancing labor rights and acknowledging the sacrifices of those lost in the July uprising.

The handover is expected to facilitate governmental recognition of the fallen workers and bolster efforts to address labor issues nationwide, as Bangladesh continues to navigate challenges related to workers’ welfare and equitable development.