A group of terminated workers on Tuesday accused Grameenphone of exploiting legal loopholes to deprive employees of their rights as part of their continious programme since December last year.

They also alleged that the company has been unlawfully terminating workers, withholding rightful dues, and misusing the judicial system to delay legal resolutions while addressing a press conferance at Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka.

“While presenting itself as a law-abiding organisation, Grameenphone has been subtly violating labour laws, forcing workers into lengthy legal battles that waste 15 to 20 years of their lives in court corridors,” said Abu Sadat Mohammad Shoaib, convenor of the Grameenphone Terminated and Rights-Deprived Workers Unity Council, which organised the event.

The platform highlighted various allegations, including illegal layoffs, labour rights violations, and human rights abuses by the telecom giant.

According to organisers, the number of permanent employees at Grameenphone has declined by 70% over the past decade, now standing at just 1,200. “During this layoff process, workers were pressured into voluntary retirement, subjected to mental stress, and denied their legal entitlements,” said a terminated worker who requested anonymity.

In 2012, approximately 180 workers were allegedly fired for attempting to form a trade union, while since 2015, a so-called “voluntary retirement” scheme has reportedly been used to pressure employees into resignation. Under the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006, workers are entitled to 5% of the company’s profits.

The former employees claim that Grameenphone has failed to comply with this provision, even after a High Court ruling, and has not paid the associated penalties for delays.

When contacted for a response, Grameenphone issued a media statement on Tuesday asserting that the allegations involve matters currently before the courts.

“For the past few months, some former employees have been gathering in front of GP House, raising various demands related to employment and benefits. To our knowledge, most of these individuals separated from Grameenphone long ago and have already received their lawful entitlements,” the statement read.

The company reiterated its respect for the judicial system, adding that legal matters would be resolved through court proceedings. “While GP respects the right to peaceful assembly, these individuals have illegally blocked entry and exit points of GP premises on multiple occasions,” the statement added.

Grameenphone emphasised its commitment to upholding the law, prioritising the safety and security of its employees and customers. The statement also noted that law enforcement agencies had been deployed around GP premises to maintain order and protect individuals and property.