Nearly 250 workers of Roar Fashion Ltd blocked the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) office in Uttara today, demanding payment of their arrears.  

The factory, which employed around 1,200 workers, is owned by former Awami League lawmaker Sifuzzaman Shikhor, said a former BGMEA director, requesting anonymity.  

The workers were laid off three months ago from the factory in Bhaluka but have yet to receive their service benefits. As a result, they have not been paid for the past three months, nor have they received their salaries and bonuses, as the factory owner's whereabouts remain unknown.  

The workers also staged a demonstration in front of the BGMEA building yesterday, blocking it until midday, the former director added. Today, they resumed their protest at the association's Uttara office.  

BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain said he was not fully aware of the blockade as he was occupied with his responsibilities at the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), where he serves as vice-chairman.  

He said BGMEA has been monitoring factories struggling to pay salaries and Eid bonuses on time.  "Many factory issues have already been resolved, but in the case of Roar Fashion, the owner remains untraceable," he said.  

The workers were still at the premises blockading the BGMEA building as of filing this report at 8 pm.