Illegal Factory Operations: BAT has continued to operate in Bangladesh, running tobacco factories without necessary legal registrations or government permissions. In addition to illegally operating factories, BAT has consistently violated major labor laws, leading to the exploitation of workers. Despite employing over 1,800 workers, BAT has failed to provide them with basic documentation like identity cards or proper service books, which are mandatory under Bangladesh’s labor laws.
Exploitation of Workers: BAT has violated 45 major provisions of labor laws across various categories, including forced work on weekly holidays without compensation. Workers are entitled to receive 50% of their total salary as basic pay, but BAT has failed to comply with this regulation as well. Workers have also reported unsafe working conditions, lack of group insurance, and inadequate healthcare benefits, all of which are clearly stipulated by the labor laws.
Trade Union Restrictions: BAT has not allowed seasonal workers to participate in trade union activities for the past three years, including not allowing them to vote in trade union elections. Even though a ruling from the High Court in 2024 permitted seasonal workers to vote, BAT continued to block them from running as candidates. Additionally, evidence has emerged that BAT suspended union membership for seasonal workers by halting their monthly membership dues from 2024 onwards.
Testimonies from Workers: First Worker: “If the law was respected, we would be getting what is promised to us. But it’s clear that the people in charge are profiting off our suffering.”
Second Worker: “The company has bought off the authorities. People like Mehidi and Belayet are the ones benefiting from this, while workers like us are left out.”
Labor Rights Violations: BAT’s operations show clear disregard for fundamental labor rights. These violations include failing to grant workers proper holiday leave and denying them entitlement to provident funds, gratuities, and other compensations as required by law.
Legal Action: Zahirul Hossain, Deputy Director of the Kushtia Regional Labor Department, confirmed that BAT’s practices are a criminal violation of the labor laws. The company has been specifically called out for denying workers their weekly rest days, which is punishable under the law.
Organizational Issues: BAT Bangladesh continues to operate without an approved organizational structure, violating a key aspect of labor law. This lack of organizational planning leaves workers vulnerable to further exploitation, without clear channels for addressing grievances or ensuring proper compensation.
