Authorities have closed 11 factories in Tongi's BSCIC area following protests and vandalism involving current and former workers.
The unrest reportedly stemmed from laid-off employees who participated in the disturbances.
According to police and local sources, workers at all garment factories in the area reported to work as usual on Monday morning.
However, by around 9:30am, hundreds of dismissed workers gathered at the gates of 11 factories, urging the current employees to join their protest.
When the working employees refused to join the demonstration, the sacked workers resorted to vandalism, targeting the 11 factories. This led to clashes between the current workers and the dismissed employees. To prevent further damage, the factory authorities declared a holiday, and at least two dismissed workers were reported injured during the incidents.
The factories that declared a holiday include Tosi Knit Fabrics Ltd, National Composites Ltd, Patriot Eco Apparels Ltd, Belisima Apparels Ltd, Jeans & Polo Ltd, Tengon Garments Ltd, Radisson Garments Ltd, Sumi Apparels Ltd, RBS Garments Ltd, Garden Textiles Ltd, and Tajkia Apparels Ltd.
Following the closure, the dismissed workers staged a protest on a branch road near the water tank in the BSCIC area, continuing their demonstration until 3:00pm.
Ramzan Hossain, one of the dismissed workers, stated, "Female workers are being prioritised for employment in the factories. When we asked the current workers to join our movement, they refused. As a result, we remain on the streets. If our demands are not met, we will prevent any workers from entering the garment factories."
Hemayet Uddin, Deputy General Manager (Human Resources) at Tajkia Apparels Ltd, explained, "In the morning, outsiders gathered in front of the factory and vandalized the main gate. We declared a holiday to prevent further damage."
Assistant Superintendent of Police Mosharaf Hossain of Gazipur Industrial Police said that hundreds of workers vandalised the 11 factories, protesting against perceived employment discrimination and the preference for hiring male workers.
"The agitators took a stand on a road in Tongi's BSCIC area. Efforts are being made to reason with them," he added.