Businesses to file writ over hartal violence

Businesses have decided to file a writ petition against violent activities during any blockade or hartal programme badly affecting the country's trade and economic activities.

The decision was taken at a meeting of representatives from the country's various trade bodies including FBCCI, BGMEA and BTMA, on Tuesday at the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) headquarters in the city.

"The meeting, unanimously, have agreed to file a writ as part of our legal step against the ongoing destructive activities in the phase of blockades and general strikes," said Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin, the convener of a committee that was formed recently by the apparel sector stakeholders to decide on what to do against the prevailing political turmoil.

"Businesses from all other sectors are with our move, since it is a non-political initiative," Mr Mohiuddin, also former BGMEA president told newsman after the meeting.

When asked, he said they would file the writ by next week.  

Apart from seeking an immediate end to the destructive activities, the proposed writ would also seek to know as to who would be made responsible for the vindictive acts and who would compensate the damages, he further said.

The meeting was also informed that a separate meeting would also be held under the leadership of Abdus Salam Murshedy, president of Exporters' Association of Bangladesh, to discuss the impact of the ongoing political turmoil and seek necessary measures and support from the government to this effect.

All apparel sector stakeholders including accessories, plastic and terry towel manufacturers, truck and covered van service providers, insurers and others related to the sector, would join the meeting to be held on Thursday, Mr Mohiuddin added.

    munni_fe@yahoo.com