Outsourcing workers stage protest at Shahbagh, demanding job nationalization

Outsourced workers from various government institutions have blocked roads at the Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka, demanding the nationalization of their jobs. The protest, which began around 10 am on Saturday, caused significant traffic disruptions in the area, with many passengers leaving their buses to walk to their destinations.

Under the banner of the "Anti-Discrimination Outsourcing Movement," the protesters are calling for an end to the outsourcing system in government and autonomous institutions and are demanding permanent employment for all outsourced workers. They warned that protests would continue until their demands are met.

One protester from Sylhet stated, "Our one-point demand is the nationalization of jobs, and we will not stop until it is fulfilled." Another demonstrator, Rahel Raihan from the Department of Women Affairs, emphasized the insecurity they face, saying, "We are paid on a daily basis and can be dismissed at any time. We need job security and permanent employment. The outsourcing system is discriminatory, and we demand its abolition."

Jahanara Begum, an employee of Bakhrabad Gas Company, added, "We will stay here all day to press for our demands. If they are not met, we will escalate our actions and remain until the outsourcing system is abolished and our jobs are made permanent."

Md Khalid Monsur, the officer-in-charge of Shahbagh Police Station, confirmed the protest, stating that it had caused severe traffic congestion in and around Shahbagh, and the police were present to manage the situation.