Concise: Fired BRAC Bank workers protest, block Governor’s car

NN Online:

A group of dismissed BRAC Bank employees blocked the car of Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur on Thursday afternoon, demanding reinstatement in their former positions.

The protest took place outside the Bangla Academy premises, where the Bangladesh Bank had organized a CMSME Women Entrepreneurs Fair. As the governor was leaving the venue following the inauguration, the demonstrators sat in front of his vehicle, shouting slogans and holding banners. Some women even lay down in front of the car to prevent it from moving.

Security personnel attempted to disperse the protesters, leading to scuffles and brief physical confrontations. Eventually, the protesters were forcibly removed, allowing the governor to leave the area.

The former employees alleged that they were unjustly terminated from BRAC Bank without prior notice, despite years of honest service. Some claimed they were pressured into resigning, resulting in severe financial hardship and mental distress.

According to the protesters, Bangladesh Bank had investigated the matter following complaints from around 300 dismissed employees and issued a directive on August 12, 2024, ordering their reinstatement. However, they said BRAC Bank has yet to comply, and none of the affected staff have been rehired.