No Union Power Politics in Silk Factory, Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu.

Md. Sohel Rana, Rajshahi Correspondent. ​Land Minister Md. Mizanur Rahman Minu has issued a stern warning, stating that no attempts to hold the Rajshahi Silk Factory or its officials hostage to achieve personal interests will be tolerated under any circumstances. He declared, "No union power politics will be allowed by holding the factory hostage. Only those who play a role in protecting the institution's existence and boosting production will have the opportunity to work here." ​He made these remarks as the chief guest at an event organized at the Regional Silk Expansion Office within the Rajshahi Silk Factory premises around 12:30 PM on Friday (October 16). Under the National Tree Plantation Program, mulberry saplings were planted, and 15 previously non-operational power looms of the factory were restarted on this day. ​The Land Minister said that the traditional Rajshahi Silk Factory is a key source of livelihood and income for many families in this region. Through sustained efforts, 15 looms have been successfully made operational. Shortly, the number of active looms will be increased from 15 to 25 to expand production capacity. ​Criticizing the disruption of factory operations in the name of labor politics, the minister emphasized that while temporary benefits might be gained by taking the factory hostage, it brings no permanent good; rather, its negative impact falls upon future generations. Therefore, narrow interests and unfair leadership mindsets must be abandoned. ​He stressed, "This institution provides livelihoods for people. If necessary, I will stand by the workers and employees even by selling my own blood, but no one who harms the institution will be tolerated." Urging the avoidance of nepotism in recruitment and responsibility distribution, he added that even if a Member of Parliament or a close associate calls with a job recommendation for their child or family member, no unfair advantage will be granted. ​Reflecting on his 42 years of active political experience, the minister noted that as time passes due to age and physical realities, handing over responsibilities to new and qualified individuals is a natural process. While advising everyone to win hearts with love and good conduct, he instructed strict organizational and administrative actions against any wrongdoing or irregularities. ​Speaking as a special guest at the event, Advocate Shafiqul Haque Milon, Member of Parliament for the Paba-Mohanpur constituency, alleged that a deliberate attempt was made to destroy Rajshahi’s traditional silk industry. He stated that just as conspiracies were hatched in the past against the jute, RMG, and pharmaceutical industries, the silk industry similarly fell victim to a form of colonial aggression. ​He further mentioned that the people of the country unitedly escaped this situation, removing the heavy burden upon them and creating a new environment. In this favorable environment, the Honorable Prime Minister has already announced the revitalization of the silk factory, making him highly optimistic. Expressing agreement with the demand to expand the Silk Board Directorate, the MP assured all necessary logistical support. ​Earlier, guests planted trees on the factory premises and inaugurated the 15 restarted power looms by cutting a ribbon. They subsequently inspected the operational power looms and the yarn manufacturing unit. ​According to Silk Board sources, the Rajshahi Silk Factory has a total of 42 looms. Steps are being taken to phase in the operation of the inactive looms. The initiative aims to increase silk fabric production while creating employment for local weavers. Concurrently, a widespread mulberry sapling planting program has been undertaken in and around the factory grounds to ensure a sustainable supply of mulberry leaves the primary raw material for silk cocoon production. ​The event was also attended by Rajshahi Division Commissioner Md. Yusuf Ali, Rajshahi District Council Administrator Freedom Fighter Advocate Ershad Ali Esha, Director General of Bangladesh Sericulture Development Board Md. Taufiq Al Mahmud, Director (Finance and Planning) Dr. M. A. Mannan, and Vice-President of Rajshahi City BNP Aslam Sarkar, among others. Other officials and employees of the Rajshahi Silk Factory were also present.