Human chain in front of Press Club demands release of Rayhan Kabir
The protesters urged the government to take strong initiatives to ensure migrant works are not harassed abroad
A human chain was held in front of the National Press Club on Wednesday by Bangladesh Nari Sramik Kendra (BNSK) and Bangladesh Labour Rights Forum demanding the immediate release of Rayhan Kabir – a migrant arrested by the Malaysian government – and an end to the harassment of migrant workers abroad.
The protesters also sent a memorandum to the foreign minister for immediate action over the issue, read a press release.
Bangladeshi migrant worker Rayhan Kabir was arrested by the Malaysian government for giving an interview to Al Jazeera over the harassment and torture of migrant workers in Malaysia. Due to his statement, his work permit was cancelled, he was detained and then jailed.
Bangladesh Labour Rights Forum President Abul Hossain moderated the human chain where BNSK Executive Director Sumaiya Islam demanded the immediate release of Rayhan Kabir and and end to all harassment of migrant workers.
They urged the government to take strong initiatives to ensure migrant works are not harassed abroad.
Bangladesh Textile Garments Federation General Secretary Tapan Saha, Bangladesh-India Songhoti Parishad President Machu Mia, uncle of Raihan Kabir Delwar Hossain, IID Chief Executive Sayeed Ahmed, Mr Khorshed Alam from BILLS, Ms Supria from OKUP, Bulbul Ahmad from Samajtantrik Sramik Front, Badrul Alam from Bangladesh Krishok Federation, Bangladesh Sromo Odhiker Forum President Jakir Hossain, Mr Jakaria, returnee workers from Malaysia, Mobarok Ishak from BRAC, WARBE and BOMSA representatives, and others representatives from 64 organizations and associations attended and addressed in the event.
Speakers demanded the immediate release of Rayhan Kabir and an end to harassment of migrant workers through strong initiatives by the government.
They also urged the government to ensure: dignity; justice; security; freedom of speech; an end to harassment, torture and exploitation; and the establishment of human rights for migrant workers in the country of destination and country of origin.
