DHAKA: The government deploys armed police battalion members instead of industrial police for ensuring security of readymade garment industries in Ashulia.
The government move is aimed at averting untoward situation that might stem from declaration of minimum wages.
Competent sources said the armed police battalion or APBN has been kept ready ahead of declaring the minimum wages on Thursday.
An APBN battalion with some 800 forces led by a Police Super has been sent to Ashulia industrial area from hill tracts of Chittagong.
Earlier on January 13, the government had decided to form a separate ‘industrial police’ for ensuring security of the RMG units.
However, Dhaka district Police Super Iqbal Bahar told banglanews24.com.bd that the APBN members have started joining their new assignment.
“The APBN will work as alternative to industry police”, Bahar said.
The 7th APBN battalion tasked for Ashulia, was working with Army at Longdu area in Rangamati. The Army had a note against its relocation, sources said.
But the district police administration now facing difficulties in providing housing and meals for the battalion.
Over the government’s decision, BGMEA President Salam Murshedi told banglanews24.com.bd that the APBN could not be alternative to industry police.
He raised question as to how a battalion will ensure security for the whole area.
BDST: 1728 HRS. JULY 28, 2010.
