Seminar on Labor Unrest in Bangladesh (1972–1975) Held by BHARS

Dhaka, 20 September 2025:
The Bangladesh History and Archaeology Research Society (BHARS) organized a scholarly seminar titled “Labor Unrest in Bangladesh (1972–1975)”, featuring researcher Nasima Hamid, Associate Professor in the Department of History at Jahangirnagar University. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. A.K.M. Shahnawaz, a distinguished historian, archaeologist, and President of BHARS.

In her presentation, Nasima Hamid highlighted the crucial role of the working class in Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Approximately four million workers actively participated in the struggle, driven by the vision of establishing a just and equitable society. However, in the post-independence years, the failure to ensure justice, dignity, and basic human rights for the labor community led to growing dissatisfaction and unrest among workers. As a result, various labor movements emerged across the country.

The researcher examined the structural causes behind these crises, analyzing how labor activism unfolded during this turbulent period. She also explored how deprivation, frustration, and unmet expectations among workers contributed to broader socio-economic and political instability in the early years of the newly independent nation. Her study attempts to present these issues from a perspective that differs from conventional historical narratives.

Participants noted that such historical research and analysis are essential for gaining an impartial and comprehensive understanding of Bangladesh’s post-war socio-economic and political history. They expressed hope that insights gathered from the seminar will help the researcher further strengthen her work and contribute to a new dimension in historical writing.

BHARS expressed its gratitude to the organizer and the researcher for their valuable contributions. Special appreciation and respect were extended to Professor Dr. A.K.M. Shahnawaz, whose leadership and guidance continue to inspire the research platform he established with his PhD fellows. Participants also expressed hope that this platform will continue to illuminate the world of research and scholarship.

The seminar concluded with wishes for the well-being and progress of all.