Manipuri Weavers in Bangladesh Demand Protection of GI Rights Amid Rising Counterfeit Production
Artisans from Adampur and Kurigram allege illegal factories are producing imitation “Sylhet Manipuri Sarees,” threatening their livelihood, culture, and Bangladesh’s handloom heritage.
Manipuri handloom weavers and artisans of Adampur, Kamalganj, have organized a press conference demanding the closure of weaving factories illegally producing “GI-certified Sylhet Manipuri Sarees” in Manipuri areas and in Roumari of Kurigram district.
The Manipuri in Bangladesh alleged that imitation sarees are being manufactured in these factories using Manipuri motifs and designs, deceiving customers and threatening the livelihood of thousands of genuine Manipuri weavers.
Speaking at the press meet, they stated that Rubel Ahmed and his associates have established weaving factories in Roumari and other parts of Kurigram, producing counterfeit Manipuri sarees and marketing them under the GI-certified brand “Sylhet Manipuri Saree.” The weavers claimed that these acts not only violate the Geographical Indication (Registration and Protection) Act, 2013 but also endanger their centuries-old craft and cultural heritage.
The Manipuri community demanded the immediate closure of these illegal factories, legal action against those involved, and strict market surveillance by the Directorate of Consumer Rights Protection. They also called for training, design development programs, low-interest loans for artisans, and the establishment of a “Manipuri Handloom Certification and Exhibition Centre” in Adampur Bazaar.
“The imitation sarees have caused serious financial hardship to authentic Manipuri weavers; many have been forced to abandon their looms,” the statement read. “Protecting the Manipuri handloom industry means protecting a culture, a livelihood, and a proud heritage of Bangladesh.”
The Manipuri weavers urged the government to take urgent action to safeguard their intellectual property rights and ensure the survival of their traditional craft.