ED: Holding brick kiln owners accountable

The news that nearly a million workers are forced to work in inhumane conditions in the brick kilns in the country -- risking their lives on a daily basis -- is deeply troubling, and once again brings to attention the level of disregard shown by those operating these kilns.

Dhaka is among the most polluted cities in the world, and brick kilns are the major reason for that. These brick kilns often operate illegally, with absolute impunity. They destroy the environment, and are directly responsible for many life-threatening diseases.

However, the owners’ violation of human rights is an ever more egregious offense, with workers working 12-14 hours a day amidst toxic fumes, with zero social security and no avenue to escape as they are shackled and confined, and often tortured if they attempt escape.

Such conditions are not only unacceptable in this day and age, but treating human beings in this manner is nothing but a serious crime. These brick kiln owners are nothing but violators of human rights who must be held accountable, and punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Unfortunately, these owners rarely get punished for torturing their workers as they are influential in society. Once again, it is this culture of impunity -- of such heinous actions going unpunished because of the position in society of the perpetrators -- that continues to not only hold Bangladesh back, but discourages people from seeking justice and perpetuating the issue.

To that, the questions must be asked: When will these illegal brick kiln owners, who do far more harm than good, be brought to book? The government needs to put a stop to their unethical and illegals methods of doing business.