About 500 workers at Opsonin Saline (OSL) Pharma Ltd in Barishal were simultaneously laid off on Wednesday, sparking protests.
The factory management delivered layoff notices to the employees by post around midday.
Following the notification, unrest broke out among the workers, who gathered in front of the company’s Bogra Road facility to protest.
A brief clash occurred between workers and company personnel, but the demonstration subsided after management promised to make a decision by Saturday.
All affected workers were employed in the company’s Steripack Department. The protesting employees claimed that the layoffs were issued without any reason. The notices were signed by the company’s Deputy Manager of Human Resources and the HR In-Charge.
Workers expressed concern over their livelihoods, saying, “We have families to support. How will these households survive after being laid off without cause? If the company does not allow us to return to work, we will take stronger action.”
The official notice stated that due to circumstances beyond company control, production in the Steripack Department could no longer continue.
Consequently, under Bangladesh Labour Law 2006, Section 26(3), all employees of the department will be dismissed effective Nov 1, 2025, with final dues to be paid by Nov 20, 2025.