Chennai, September 16, 2024: The strike by Samsung India workers at the company’s plant near Chennai has entered its seventh day on Monday, causing significant disruptions to production. The strike, led by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), is demanding higher wages, better working hours, and formal recognition of their union.
Police Detain 100 Workers and Union Leaders amid strike
In a major escalation, police detained around 100 striking workers and union leaders on Friday for protesting without permission. The workers have been protesting outside the factory, which manufactures TVs, washing machines, and refrigerators, and contributes 30% of Samsung India’s annual $12 billion revenue.
Workers’ Demands
The striking workers are demanding recognition of their union, CITU, higher wages, better working hours, and an end to intimidation and coercion by the company. They are also seeking negotiations on wage increases.
Company Response
A Samsung spokesperson said that negotiations are ongoing with the workers to resolve their grievances and that the company follows all laws and regulations. However, the company has not yet agreed to the workers’ demands.
Impact on Production
The strike has affected half of the daily production output, with over 1,000 workers participating in the protest. The plant is a critical manufacturing hub for Samsung, producing a significant portion of its Indian output.
Background
The strike began on Monday, with workers alleging that the company has been ignoring their demands for higher wages and better working conditions. The CITU union was formed in June, and the company has yet to recognize it. The workers have accused the company of intimidating and coercing them to abandon their union activities.
Meanwhile, heavy police security has been deployed outside the factory, with workers protesting peacefully. The situation remains tense, with no resolution in sight.