Mirpur Garment Workers Protest Over Tk30,000 Wage Demand

The Mirpur garment workers protest intensified in Dhaka on Sunday, November 1, as apparel workers blocked the Mirpur-10 intersection demanding a minimum monthly wage of Tk30,000. The demonstration disrupted traffic across several parts of Mirpur and later turned into clashes between workers and police.

Workers from several garment factories began gathering at the intersection around 8:00 am to press their demand. The blockade affected commuters travelling through Mirpur-10, Mirpur-11 and nearby areas.

Mirpur Garment Workers Protest Turns Violent

Tensions escalated at around 11:15 am when some workers reportedly threw bricks and stones at police.

Police responded with baton charges, water cannons, sound grenades and tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. Clashes, chases and confrontations continued until approximately 11:45 am.

Police managed to disperse workers from the main intersection. However, some demonstrators regrouped in nearby areas and continued protesting.

Traffic Disrupted Across Mirpur

The blockade caused significant traffic congestion in Mirpur and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Vehicular movement was disrupted around Mirpur-10, Mirpur-11 and Mirpur-14. Roads connecting Mirpur-11 with Agargaon and Mirpur-2 with Mirpur-13 also experienced difficulties.

Authorities closed the gates of Mirpur-10 Metro Rail Station during the blockade. Traffic police attempted to manage the situation by diverting vehicles through alternative routes.

Workers Continue Demanding Tk30,000 Minimum Wage

The protesters are demanding that the minimum monthly wage for garment workers increase to Tk30,000.

The demand comes amid rising living costs and concerns about workers’ ability to manage household expenses with their current earnings.

The current minimum wage for garment workers is Tk12,500. The proposed Tk30,000 would represent more than double the existing minimum.

Government Forms Six-Member Wage Board

The government has formed a six-member wage board to review the minimum wage structure for garment workers.

The board includes representatives from employers, workers and neutral parties. The Labour Ministry has issued notifications regarding its formation and asked the board to begin the necessary process for determining a new minimum wage.

Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury had urged workers to return to their workplaces following discussions with labour leaders and garment industry representatives.

However, the wage board’s formation has not immediately ended the demonstrations.

Protests Also Reported on Saturday

The unrest continued from Saturday, October 31, when garment workers blocked roads in Mirpur-10, Mirpur-11 and Mirpur-12.

Reports also described vandalism at several factories and shopping centres, along with confrontations involving workers and security personnel.

The wider labour unrest has affected other industrial areas, including Ashulia and Gazipur, where workers have also demonstrated over the Tk30,000 minimum wage demand.

What Happens Next?

The wage board’s next steps will be important in determining whether the ongoing protests can be resolved through negotiations.

For now, the workers’ demand remains unchanged, while the government faces pressure to find a solution that addresses wage concerns and restores normal operations in the garment industry.

The situation may continue to affect traffic, factory operations and workers’ daily activities if an agreement is not reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are garment workers protesting in Mirpur?

Workers are demanding that the minimum monthly wage in the garment sector be increased to Tk30,000.

When did the Mirpur-10 protest begin?

Workers began gathering and blocking the Mirpur-10 intersection at around 8:00 am on November 1, 2026.

Did workers clash with police?

Yes. Clashes began at approximately 11:15 am. Police used baton charges, water cannons, sound grenades and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.

What is the current minimum wage for garment workers?

The current minimum monthly wage is Tk12,500.

Has the government formed a new wage board?

Yes. The government has formed a six-member wage board to review the minimum wage structure.

Was traffic affected by the protest?

Yes. Traffic was disrupted around Mirpur-10, Mirpur-11, Mirpur-14 and several connecting roads.