In Tamil Nadu, around 1,100 out of 1,750 employees at Samsung’s Sriperumbudur plant have been on strike since September 9, demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and the registration of the Samsung India Workers’ Union, backed by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU). The strike has drawn significant attention from the state government and the public.
Government Involvement in Resolving the Strike
Following Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin’s instructions, a team of three state ministers, led by Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, has been assigned to mediate between Samsung’s management and the workers. The ministers include Rajaa, MSME Minister T M Anbarasan, and Labour Welfare and Skill Development Minister C V Ganesan. Their goal is to ensure a swift resolution to the ongoing strike.
“We are confident that Samsung’s management and their employees will come together and arrive at an amicable solution that benefits everyone involved,” said TRB Rajaa in a social media post after meeting with Samsung officials.
Support for the Workers
The strike has garnered support from Left party members, who held a demonstration near the factory in solidarity with the workers. The protest, held without police permission, led to the detention of several party leaders on October 5.
Samsung’s Response to the Strike
Samsung India has acknowledged the workers’ concerns and stated that it is committed to resolving issues related to wages, benefits, and working conditions. The company is in direct negotiations with the employees and assured that it adheres to all local laws and regulations.
Despite the strike, Samsung claims that production has returned to normal at the Sriperumbudur plant, which manufactures consumer electronics such as refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions. The company aims to prevent any disruption to consumers ahead of the festive season and urges the striking workers to return to work.
“At Samsung India, the welfare of our employees is our top priority,” a company spokesperson said. “We again urge the striking workers to return to work.”
With state officials actively involved and Samsung in direct talks with the employees, there is optimism that the ongoing labour strike will soon come to a resolution. Both the government and Samsung hope to find a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the workers’ demands and ensures continued production at the Sriperumbudur plant.
