Barishal: Hundreds of workers of Fortune Shoes Ltd blocked Natun Bazar road in Barishal on Thursday, pressing for their eight-point demands, which include the payment of two months’ overdue wages. The protest caused significant traffic congestion as the workers gathered at Notun Bazar around 1 pm, obstructing the road till at least 5:30 pm.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the protesting workers claimed they had not received their salaries for two months despite regular attendance. They also reported working overtime without receiving the legally mandated overtime wages. Under the labour law, workers should receive double their regular wage for overtime work, a compensation they allege has been denied.

The workers further alleged that attempts to discuss unpaid wages and other dues with company authorities resulted in harassment and pressure. They claimed that employees trying to join organizations to protect workers’ rights faced job termination threats. The protesters vowed to persist in their movement until their demands, including the payment of all outstanding wages and allowances, are fulfilled.

Shahidul Hawlader, office secretary of the Barishal District Sramik Front, highlighted the neglect of the workers’ demands and urged authorities to resolve the crisis by addressing outstanding salaries and other issues. He warned that the movement could intensify if no action is taken.

The protest led to severe traffic congestion in the Notun Bazar area, causing significant inconvenience to commuters. Police intervened, persuading the protesters to move to one side of the road to allow vehicles to pass, although traffic flow remained slow. Al Mamun Ul Islam, Officer-in-Charge of Barishal Kotwali Model Police Station, stated that police were monitoring the situation to minimize public discomfort.

No immediate response was available from Fortune Shoes Ltd regarding the allegations made by the workers.