Am Janatar Dal General Secretary Md Tarek Rahman on Monday proposed fixing garment workers' wages at an amount equivalent to the international market price of six shirts.

He made the proposal in a post on his verified Facebook page.

In the post, Tarek said his party had earlier proposed that workers receive wages equivalent to the price of at least six shirts in the international market during a previous wage movement.

“Even if the price of six shirts in the international market is considered now, it will amount to around Tk 20,000 at Tk 3,500 per shirt. With overtime, a worker can earn Tk 25,000,” he wrote.

Responding to questions about garment workers demanding Tk 30,000 a month despite some graduates earning Tk 12,000, the Am Janatar Dal leader said skilled workers should receive wages commensurate with the value they produce.

“An electrician charges Tk 500 for an hour's work, while a sanitary worker charges at least Tk 1,000 for two hours. Those who produce value through their labour deserve proper remuneration if they have the required skills,” he said.

Referring to the recent arson attacks on factories, Tarek said he did not believe any worker would set fire to their own workplace.

He called for bringing those responsible to justice, saying the incidents had jeopardised the jobs of thousands of workers.

The Am Janatar Dal general secretary also welcomed the government's formation of a minimum wage board, describing it as good news for workers.

He said both workers and factory owners should have the opportunity to participate in the board's discussions and express their views. “Representatives of international buyers should also be included.”