The tea industry, which plays a vital role in the nation's economy, owes its success to tireless work of hundreds of thousands of workers. However, behind this economic achievement lies a grim story of deprivation and discrimination that continues to define the lives of tea workers.
Tea-growing regions such as Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Chattogram, and Panchagarh are home to countless labourers who toil tirelessly to nurture and harvest tea. Despite their hard work, tea workers earn a daily wage of just 170 Taka - a meagre amount that is woefully inadequate to meet even the most basic needs, such as food, healthcare, and education for their families. Adding to their plight are substandard living conditions and a lack of access to essential healthcare services.
For generations, families have been tied to the tea gardens, with children often following their parents into the same line of work. A lack of access to education and skill development opportunities leaves tea workers trapped in a cycle of poverty, unable to explore alternative livelihoods or break free from this legacy of hardship.
In recent years, tea workers have begun to raise their voices in protest. Last year, they united to demand higher wages, better education, and improved healthcare services. However, it remains uncertain as to what extent their demands have been met or their conditions improved.
Addressing this systemic injustice requires a concerted effort from both the government and tea industry stakeholders. Immediate steps must be taken to ensure fair wages, adequate housing, access to healthcare, and an enhanced education system for the children of tea workers.
To truly uplift this marginalised community, a fair and non-discriminatory wage system commensurate with the workers' labour and dedication is essential. Establishing quality educational institutions and healthcare facilities near tea estates will create long-term benefits for the workers and their families. The government must also improve housing conditions and ensure the enforcement of laws that protect the rights of tea workers, empowering them to seek redress when necessary.
Additionally, trade unions must be given the freedom to function effectively, advocating for the interests of tea workers and safeguarding their rights. A collaborative approach involving all stakeholders is essential to achieve meaningful and sustainable change.
Mainul Islam Omi
Student, Department of Public Administration
Jagannath University, Dhaka