A group of rights deprived workers of mobile network operator Grameenphone (GP) has demanded reinstating jobs who were forcefully terminated in guise of voluntary retirement scheme (VRS).

“The company has dismissed over 3360 workers has dismissed over 3,360 workers under the guise of 'voluntary retirement' and has continuously ignored rightful claims for workers’ benefits. The number of staff dropped to 1250 from 45,00,” Monowar Parvez, a leader of the rights platform, told the Mirror Asia on Sunday.

The platform titled ‘Dismissed and Rights-Deprived Grameenphone Workers Unity Council’ continued demonstration in front of GP House in Bashundhara residential area in the capital for last three week, since 2 December.

The protestor also demanded independent investigations and punitive actions against GP  officials including the CEO Yasir Azman, Chief Marketing Officer Sajjad Hasib and their collaborators, who are responsible for worker oppression and misconduct.

Protesters claimed that GP chief executive officer Yasir Azman sought nomination from Awami League in last general election leveraging the closed relation with Telecom Minister Mustafa Jabbar and State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak.

“Most of the employees of GP were optimistic about first Bangladesh chief executive. However, Yasir Azman has proven that political affiliation is important to shine in corporate. In shed of Awami League, Azman has made unlawful practice against the workers,” said a demonstrator requesting not to be named.

The platform of demonstrator has demanded immediate reinstatement of illegally dismissed employees with full financial and social compensation.

They also sought settlement of all outstanding dues, including penalties for delayed dividend payments and accountability and Investigation into abuses of power by GP top brasses and their collaborators.

Regarding the allegations, the Mirror Asia sought comment from Yasir Azman over phone. However, he didn’t respond to the message. 

In a statement, Grameenphone said some former employees of Grameenphone have come here with some demands. “Grameenphone operates its business in full compliance with all relevant laws of the country. The demands made by them are currently subjudice before the honourable court," read the note.

The Unity Council has accused Grameenphone of using its influence to suppress workers’ protests, often leveraging political connections of ousted Awami regime and it’s identified corrupted associates to delay or manipulate judicial processes.