Tazreen tragedy survivors demand exemplary punishment of perpetrators

Workers injured in the Tazreen Fashions fire, in a sit-in strike, demanded compensation to the victims' family members, rehabilitation for survivors and exemplary punishment for the perpetrators.

They staged the strike in front of the National Press Club for five hours from 11am on Sunday (Nov 24), marking the 7th anniversary of Tazreen Tragedy.

Speaking at the event, the workers alleged that no step has yet been taken to rehabilitate the survivors although seven years have passed after the tragic incident.

Besides, families of the dead workers and many injured are yet to get proper compensation as pledged by the government and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and different organisations, the workers added.

Most of the injured workers who lost their workability after the tragedy have been leading an inhuman life, the speakers also said.  

Jago Bangladesh Garment Sramik Federation convener Md Baharane Sultan Bahar alleged that the affected workers did not get the financial help as pledged by organizations such as Walmart and Brac. 

The workers added that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had assured them of speedy punishment for the perpetrators of the disaster.  But perpetrators are yet to face any punishment.

They sought Prime Minister's intervention and directives to take necessary steps for their rehabilitation and demanded quick verdict of the cases filed against the factory owner who was reportedly responsible for the incident.

At least 117 people were dead and a further 170 workers were injured in the deadly fire that took place on November 24, 2012, at the Tazreen garments factory at Nischintapur in Ashulia. 

Two cases were filed regarding the incident, which are currently on trial.