No Effective Government Role Against Abuse of Migrant Workers, Saiful Haq Tells Rally in Front of Press Club

Saiful Haq, general secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, has alleged that no effective role is being seen from the Bangladesh government, the relevant embassies or the expatriates' welfare ministry in cases of abuse of migrant workers and sexual abuse of women workers.

He made the allegation while speaking at a rally and protest march organised by Bangladesh Biplobi Shramik Sanghati in front of the National Press Club at noon on Thursday (29 October).

Saiful Haq said migrant workers are being subjected to abuse in various Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia.

He said allegations of sexual abuse and rape of women workers in particular are alarming.

Saiful Haq said no effective role is being seen from the relevant embassies and the expatriates' welfare ministry to ensure the safety and protection of these workers.

Demanding an end to recruiting agency syndicates in sending workers abroad, he said arrangements must be made to send workers to various countries including Malaysia at government cost.

He said this would reduce the cost for workers going abroad and ensure transparency in the recruitment process.

On workers' wages, Saiful Haq demanded implementation of a national minimum wage by November.

He also called for setting a minimum monthly wage of Tk 30,000 for workers in all sectors including the ready-made garment industry.