The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has instructed departmental heads to take disciplinary action against employees who participated in protests against a High Court verdict on government’s move to award a contract to UAE-based DP World for container handling at the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) in Chattogram

In an office order signed by CPA Director (Admin) Md Omar Faruk yesterday, the authority said that at around 11:30am on January 29, a section of port employees joined processions at the port’s administrative building and surrounding areas during working hours.

It said the employees made adverse remarks against the court verdict and opposed it, which the authority described as a violation of official discipline. Photos and videos of the protests were circulated on social media and some participants made statements to print and electronic media.

As per the order, concerned departmental heads were directed to initiate departmental proceedings against those involved, in accordance with the Government Service Act, 2018, the CPA Employees Service Rules, 1991 and other related rules.

It added that employees had been warned multiple times earlier against such activities.

Referring to the HC verdict on a writ petition concerning the NCT, the CPA said the court had ruled the government’s procedures for signing the deal to be lawful and that the matter remains sub judice.

The authority instructed all port employees to refrain -- directly or indirectly -- from activities opposing court decisions, warning that violators would face punitive measures under prevailing laws and regulations.