Dhaka, Nov 02 (V7N)- Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has warned of strict legal action against anyone involved in activities that undermine workers' interests, disrupt law and order or create unrest in the garment sector under the guise of a labour movement.

He made the remarks following a meeting with leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) at the Secretariat on Monday morning.

The Home Minister said the wage board formed to determine the minimum wage for garment workers would set a realistic wage after consulting all concerned parties. A meeting in this regard is expected to take place within the next one or two days.

He further alleged that some garment factories owned by former Awami League lawmakers and ministers, whose activities have been banned, were involved in attempts to create unrest in the sector. He said those allegedly involved had been identified.

Salahuddin Ahmed said BGMEA and BKMEA would provide the government with a list of factory owners and workers allegedly involved in factory closures and planned unrest.

The minister said the government did not want any factory to shut down. He also noted that labour leaders had delayed submitting the names of their representatives to the wage board.

He added that a meeting with labour leaders would be held at the Home Ministry at 3:00 pm on Monday to discuss the ongoing situation.

Referring to the government's position on workers' welfare, the Home Minister said the Prime Minister had instructed the authorities to protect workers' interests and improve their living standards.

He said workers' concerns must be addressed with sympathy and that wages would be determined based on the actual economic situation, adding that there was no dissatisfaction over the government's approach.

Commenting on political developments surrounding December, the minister said the month was being given excessive attention in public discussions.

Referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, he said the government wanted not only her but also all other fugitives staying in India to be brought back to Bangladesh.

He added that December was the month of victory and that various programmes would be organised during the month to mark the country's Victory Day.

END/SMA/AJ