FROM PAGE 5

Tea workers’ leader Sitaram Bin cited disputes over constitutional amendments, changes in the election commission’s structure, and a shortage of funds for the prevailing situation.

“The delay in holding elections is weakening the democratic structure of the union. Leadership without accountability -- through expired or ad hoc committees -- cannot properly represent workers,” he added.

For tea garden workers, the cost of the impasse continues to be reflected in low wages, inadequate accommodation and healthcare, and weakened collective bargaining rights.

Sanjoy Kanto Das, adviser to Cha Sramik Oikyo, said that the Bangladesh Tea Workers Union (B–77) was established to safeguard workers’ wages and rights — not to serve political interests.

“However, in recent years, the union has frequently acted under the influence of the ruling party, often prioritising government favour over the legitimate demands of workers. The 2023 gazette further weakened the union by restricting its authority to negotiate wages for five years, yet the leadership failed to protest it,” he also said.

Consequently, long-standing problems in tea gardens remain unresolved, and dissatisfaction among workers continues to grow.

Moulvibazar Deputy Commissioner Touhiduzzaman Pavel said the tea workers’ leaders had submitted a memorandum demanding the union elections. Steps will be taken after talking to the director general of the Department of Labour.