Photo : BSS

CHATTOGRAM, May 1, 2026 (BSS) - Historic May Day was observed in the port city and surrounding areas today with renewed calls for ensuring workers' rights, fair wages and safe working conditions.

The day was marked through rallies, processions and discussion meetings across Chattogram, highlighting the struggles of workers and the significance of the 1886 Chicago labour movement. 

Various political parties, trade unions, the Hotel Sramik Union and readymade garment (RMG) workers' organizations took part in programmes throughout the city and adjoining industrial zones.

Industrial workers from Sitakunda, Fouzderhat, Patenga, Nasirabad, Biyazid, Karnaphuli and Kalurghat areas also joined rallies, processions and cultural events to observe the day with due respect.

This year's theme, "Healthy Workers, Industrious Hands - A New Dawn Will Come," was widely displayed through banners, posters and festoons across the city. 

The Chattogram Divisional Labour Department and the Directorate of Inspection for Factories and Establishments coordinated day-long programmes, including rallies and awareness activities.

Chattogram district administration brought out a colourful rally at 9am from the District Shilpakala Academy premises. The procession, led by State Minister for Land Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, paraded through key city roads before returning to the starting point.

City Mayor Dr Shahdat Hossain, MPs Abu Sufian, Earshadullah and Sayed Al Noman, Divisional Commissioner Dr Mohammad Ziauddin, DIG Chattogram Range Md Moniruzzaman, CMP Commissioner Hasan Mohammad Showkat Ali and Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Mia also took part in the programme, along with workers and trade union leaders.

A discussion meeting was later held at the District Shilpakala Academy auditorium where the chief guest, Mir Helal, stressed the need to improve working conditions and ensure dignity for workers across all sectors.

Separately, the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal also organised a discussion meeting in the city, attended by entrepreneurs, trade union representatives and other stakeholders.