Labour unrest is a persistent issue in Bangladesh's industrial sector. It is particularly prevalent in the garment industry and other production-oriented sectors, posing a significant challenge to industrial productivity and the economy. Addressing this issue requires a strategic and humane approach from the industrial police, beyond merely maintaining law and order.
Labour unrest and the role of Industrial Police:
Bangladesh's economy is labour-dependent, with industries and factories playing a crucial role. However, maintaining harmonious labour-management relations remains challenging. Factors contributing to labour unrest in Bangladesh include deprivation of workplace rights, political instability, international political influences, low wages, improper implementation of wage structures, delays in wage and allowance payments, rumours and external provocations, interference from local influential figures, weak management or human resource practices, unresolved grievances, and unsafe working conditions. These issues hamper productivity and economic growth.
Bangladesh's labour laws provide various provisions to protect workers' rights and resolve labour disputes. However, ineffective implementation, manpower shortages in dispute resolution mechanisms, lengthy judicial processes, and delays in case settlements create major obstacles. As a result, worker dissatisfaction often escalates into protests, strikes, or violent movements, threatening industrial stability and the economy.
To control these situations, law enforcement agencies must take firm measures. Past experiences indicate that when labour unrest arises, industrial police promptly intervene to restore order. The primary responsibility of the industrial police is to maintain law and order in industrial zones and ensure workers' safety. However, sometimes allegations of using excessive force arise, leading to mistrust between workers and the police.
Strategies for the Industrial Police in ensuring a sustainable labour environment
Regular dialogues and earning trust of workers: The industrial police must engage in continuous dialogues with workers and build trust. Understanding their concerns during normal times, not just during protests, is essential. Regular meetings with labour leaders and employers to address grievances can strengthen trust, reducing labour unrest and fostering peace and stability, which ultimately enhances productivity.
Tripartite dialogue among workers, employers and industrial police: Maintaining a good relationship among workers, employers, and industrial police is crucial in preventing labour unrest. Regular discussion sessions should be arranged with the support of the Ministry of Labour. Additionally, local-level committees consisting of employers, workers' representatives, and industrial police should be formed for rapid conflict resolution. Recently, the industrial police took effective measures by forming SHIELD committees to address labour unrest. Such initiatives promote stability in the industrial sector and enhance productivity.
Implementing Labor Laws Effectively: Industrial police should not just enforce laws but also play an active role in protecting workers' rights. They should raise awareness about labour laws, ensure that employers comply with regulations, and safeguard workers' rightful benefits. Training programmes, seminars, and workshops should be organised in industrial areas to facilitate implementation of labour laws. Employers should be made aware of their legal obligations, and any violations should be reported to the relevant authorities immediately. Additionally, dedicated complaint centres (helplines/desks) should be set up for workers to directly report grievances.
Exploring Alternative Methods Instead of Force: Strict policies or excessive use of force in controlling labour unrest can worsen the situation, whereas negotiation is a more effective solution. Regular communication among workers, employers, and industrial police can swiftly resolve grievances, preventing major conflicts. The industrial police should prioritise peaceful solutions over force, treat workers humanely, and resolve issues through discussion. Coordination with relevant authorities to identify the root causes of labour unrest and developing long-term strategies should be a primary goal. Proactive initiatives should be taken to address disputes before they escalate.
Enhancing Training and Capacity Building: To make the industrial police more skilled and humane, modern training programmes are essential. Specialised training on labour unrest management, labour laws, human rights, and crisis resolution can improve their effectiveness. Regular training should be conducted to enable officers to maintain professional and compassionate relationships with workers.
Leveraging Technology and Intelligence Surveillance: The use of technology is crucial for identifying the root causes of labour unrest in advance. By employing intelligence surveillance and data analysis, industrial police can anticipate conflicts and prevent them before they escalate. A digital database should be created to monitor worker demands and concerns while gathering feedback from both employers and employees.
Supporting Worker Welfare: The industrial police should not only ensure workers' safety but also contribute to their overall well-being. This includes addressing issues related to health services, salary disputes, and the safety of female workers. Establishing help desks for grievance redressal, healthcare services, and legal assistance is necessary.
If the industrial police shift from being merely an enforcement agency to becoming a trusted partner for workers, sustainable peace and stability in the industrial sector can be achieved. A resilient and development-oriented industrial sector can be established through the collective efforts of workers, employers, and the government. Thus, the future role of the industrial police should be aimed at protecting workers' rights, resolving labour unrest through peaceful means, and ensuring worker welfare to create a sustainable labour-friendly environment.
Dr. Sohel Miah is a labour relations specialist. He did his PhD on labour unrest.
drsohelbepza@gmail.com
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