Workers in the eastern districts are protesting against the agreement signed between industrialists and trade unions on wage increase. The agreement was forged between Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC), General Federation of Nepalese Trade Unions (GEFONT) and All Nepal Trade Union Federation (ANTUF).

The agreement increased Rs 1,500 in basic salary and Rs 226 in daily wages for workers. Salary for industrial workers would get the monthly salary of Rs 6,100 and daily wages of Rs 226 effective from March 15. The agreement also binds the employers to contribute 20 per cent in the Social Security Fund (SSF) while workers will contribute 11 percent from their basic salary for SSF after the introduction of Social Security Act.

However, the workers in several eastern districts argue that the trade union leaders have failed to address the labour demands owing to their own vested interests. The workers have been demanding a minimum increment in the monthly salary to Rs. 10,000 and daily wages to Rs. 400.

Industries in Morang and Sunsari were closed down by the workers on Friday. Workers of other eastern districts have also threatened to close down the industries unless their demands are fulfilled.