Senior representatives from Samsung met with Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Industries, TRB Rajaa, on Sunday to address the ongoing labor strike at their Sriperumbudur factory. This meeting was arranged following Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s instructions to three ministers to expedite a resolution to the situation.
Approximately 1,100 out of the factory’s 1,750 employees have been on strike since September 9, advocating for various issues, including a pay revision and improved working conditions. They are also requesting that the state government register the Samsung India Workers’ Union, which is supported by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU).
On Saturday, Chief Minister Stalin directed Rajaa, along with T.M. Anbarasan (MSME) and C.V. Ganesan (Labour Welfare and Skill Development), to engage in discussions with both the management and the workers to ensure a swift resolution.
“Following the Chief Minister’s guidance, I met with Samsung’s management today to discuss a rapid resolution to the issues at hand. The Chief Minister has also asked Minister T.M. Anbarasan and me to support Minister C.V. Ganesan in these efforts,” Rajaa stated in a social media post on Sunday.
“We are optimistic that the management and employees of Samsung will collaborate to reach a solution that benefits all parties involved,” he added. On October 5, numerous members of Left parties, including state leaders, were detained for demonstrating without police permission in solidarity with the striking workers near the factory.
In response to the strike, Samsung India affirmed its commitment to addressing concerns related to wages, benefits, and working conditions through direct negotiations with the workers. The factory produces various consumer goods, including refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions.
“At Samsung India, employee welfare is our highest priority. We want to emphasize that we adhere to all national laws and regulations,” a company spokesperson stated. “We are dedicated to resolving all issues, including wages and working conditions, through direct negotiations with our workforce. Currently, we have managed to stabilize production at our Chennai facility, ensuring that there are no disruptions for consumers ahead of the festive season. We once again urge the striking workers to return to their jobs,” the spokesperson added.
Samsung India, a subsidiary of the South Korean conglomerate Samsung Electronics, is a significant player in the Indian consumer electronics and technology market. Established in 1995, the company has made a substantial impact through its diverse range of products, including smartphones, televisions, home appliances, and more.
Samsung India is known for its commitment to innovation, continuously introducing cutting-edge technology and features in its products to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers. The company has also invested heavily in local manufacturing and R&D, enhancing its presence in the country and contributing to the Make in India initiative.
Samsung’s extensive distribution network and customer service support have further solidified its position as a trusted brand in the Indian market. Additionally, Samsung actively engages in various corporate social responsibility initiatives, focusing on education, health, and environmental sustainability, demonstrating its dedication to the community.
