Chattogram port workers demand halt to foreign operator deal

Labor activists staged a daylong fast on Saturday to oppose plans allowing international companies to run three facilities at the Chattogram shipping complex. The demonstration took place outside the Chattogram Press Club and drew members from multiple worker organizations between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Anwar Hossain from Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal said the current administration lacks the authority to transfer port operations abroad. He argued that elected officials should handle such decisions after voters go to the polls. Kazi Sheikh Nurullah Bahar threatened escalated action, such as work stoppages, if authorities ignore their concerns. Tapan Dutta, who sits on the Labour Reforms Commission, characterized the privatization push as driven by political considerations tied to regional power dynamics in Southeast Asia.

SK Khoda Toton questioned why officials proceed despite public resistance to leasing arrangements. He stated the facility should maintain its current operational structure and warned against policies that might destabilize the nation. Demonstrators assembled early that morning and voiced their opposition through repeated chants.