Port Workers Launch Hunger Strike Against NCT Lease to DP World

• •Port workers initiated a hunger strike on October 12, 2026, against the NCT lease deal.
• •Concerns include job security, transparency, and lack of public consultation regarding the lease.
• •The Port Protection Committee previously condemned the lease on October 10, 2026.

On October 12, 2026, port workers in Chattogram began a hunger strike to demand the cancellation of the lease agreement for the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) with Dubai-based DP World. The protest, organized by local labor groups, highlights concerns over job security, lack of transparency, and insufficient public consultation regarding the lease. Ibrahim Khokon, a coordinator of one of the organizing groups, criticized the government's decision-making process, emphasizing the need for clarity on how the lease would improve port operations and address existing logistical challenges. The Port Protection Committee had previously condemned the lease on October 10, calling for a mass hunger strike and demanding public disclosure of the contract terms. They argue that the agreement undermines national interests and fails to ensure worker rights. The hunger strike is set to continue until 4 PM today, with calls for broader participation from various stakeholders.