National Workers’ Union Demands Trial and Casualty List in Anti-Discrimination Protests
2024-08-10 06:50:39
The National Workers’ Union demanded a trial for every murder committed during the anti-discrimination student movement and the complete publication of a casualty list. This demand was announced at a protest rally organized in front of the National Press Club on Friday (August 9).
The demonstration was led by Khalekuzzaman Lipon, Vice-President of the Garment Workers Front, and was attended by senior labor leader Abdul Quader, among others.
Labor leaders expressed concern over the lack of clarity surrounding the number of casualties in the movement. While various media reports estimate the death toll to be between 550 and 600, the government has officially acknowledged only 150 deaths. The collapse of the previous government has raised fears that the true number of victims may be concealed.
The union also demanded the immediate release of arrested laborers, an impartial investigation into each casualty incident, and maximum punishment for those responsible. They also called for adequate compensation for the families of victims, free treatment and rehabilitation for the injured.