Labour group rejects national budget, saying workers’ interests ignored

PNN News Desk, Dhaka

National Labour Shakti, an associate labour organization of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has rejected the 2026–27 national budget, claiming that the rights, welfare, and social protection of workers have not been given adequate importance.

The statement was made at a seminar held Friday afternoon at the National Press Club in Dhaka titled “Workers’ expectations and achievements in the 2026–27 national budget,” attended by labour representatives, researchers, and political leaders.

Speakers said the budget lacks effective measures for employment creation, labour welfare funds, skill development programs, and reducing costs for migrant workers.

Officials from Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies said reduced allocation in the labour and employment sector may hinder overall worker development goals and stressed increased investment.

Leaders from Bangladesh Labour Federation also criticized the lack of practical initiatives for workers, saying labourers are a key driving force of the economy but their expectations are not adequately reflected.

NCP Joint Convener Sarwar Tushar said the budget is not realistic and fails to meet public expectations.

In his concluding remarks, Labour Shakti chief Mazharul Islam Fakir said sustainable development is not possible without ensuring workers’ rights, dignity, and safety, and called for an inclusive and just economic structure involving workers, farmers, and the general public.