Samsung Appeals to TN Government for Better Business Conditions Amid Strike
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Synopsis
On Feb 20, Samsung urged the Tamil Nadu government to prioritize business facilitation and worker safety during the ongoing labor strike. The conflict with the Samsung India Workers Union has intensified, with demonstrations planned and production reportedly unaffected.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung emphasizes worker safety amid labor strike.
- Conflict with the Samsung India Workers Union escalates.
- Company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for illegal activities.
- Production operations remain uninterrupted.
- CITU plans protests and a one-day strike on March 7.
New Delhi/Chennai, Feb 20 (NationPress) The South Korean conglomerate Samsung has called upon the Tamil Nadu government to facilitate a smoother business environment while emphasizing the importance of worker safety during the current labor strike.
The ongoing conflict between the Samsung India Workers Union (SIWU), which is associated with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), and the management of Samsung India has intensified.
"A specific group of workers attempted once again to unlawfully disrupt operations and the tranquility of the workplace today. We maintain a zero-tolerance stance against any unlawful activities by workers that disturb industrial harmony," the company stated in a recent update.
They also emphasized that adherence to company policies is crucial, noting that those who breach these policies could face disciplinary measures following due process.
"While our production continues without interruption, we appeal to the state authorities to ensure the safety of our workforce, uphold discipline, and promote a conducive business environment," the South Korean firm stated.
Despite the unrest, the company confirmed that production has not been impacted.
In parallel, the CITU has declared intentions to hold protests at four locations of the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) in Kancheepuram district this Friday.
The union has also pledged to blockade the entrances of Samsung's factory in Sriperumbudur on the same day, thereby preventing contract workers—whom they refer to as "illegal workers"—from accessing the site.
Additionally, the trade union organization has announced a one-day strike across all sectors in Kancheepuram district on March 7.
The demonstrations commenced on February 5, with over 500 Samsung employees engaging in a sit-in protest against the suspension of three SIWU members. The union was officially registered by the state Labour Welfare Department following a 38-day strike and a lengthy 212-day legal battle.
Samsung’s facility in Sriperumbudur has approximately 1,800 employees and is responsible for manufacturing televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, and compressors.
