For nearly a month, workers at the Samsung Electronics manufacturing facility in Chennai have been engaged in a protest demanding better wages and official recognition of their union.The strike, organized by the Samsung India Workers Union in collaboration with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (SIWU-CITU), has significantly impacted the company’s production, reportedly reducing output by 80% ahead of the vital festive season, which typically sees a surge in sales of home appliances.
Workers’ Demands
The Samsung plant in Tamil Nadu employs approximately 1,800 individuals, with more than 1,000 workers participating in the strike since September 9. The SIWU-CITU is advocating for several key demands, including:
- Recognition of the Union: The union is seeking formal acknowledgment from Samsung Electronics.
- Salary Increase: A three-year salary increment to ₹36,000.
- Increased Shift Allowance: A rise in shift allowance from ₹150 to ₹250.
- Extended Paternal Leave: An increase in paternal leave from three to seven days.
- Equal Pay: The union demands equal pay for workers with similar qualifications and job responsibilities.
For the past 16 years Samsung India Electronics Private Limited has operated without a union. Although the Samsung India Workers Union was formed last year, it is still awaiting official registration and recognition from the company.
Company Response and Strike-Breaking Tactics
In response to the ongoing strike, Samsung Electronics has taken a hardline approach. The company warned workers last month that they would not receive wages if they continued protesting and faced potential termination. However, Samsung has also begun to use more conciliatory tactics. Reports indicate that the management has been sending snack kits containing fruits and chocolates to the homes of striking workers, as well as visiting their families in an attempt to discourage participation in the protests.
A Samsung employee with eight years of service noted, “They’re sending ‘snack kits’ with fruits and chocolates to our homes, calling and visiting family members to discourage strike participation.”
Additionally, S. Kannan, Tamil Nadu CITU’s deputy general secretary, revealed that Samsung is offering one-time bonuses to entice workers away from the union. Despite these efforts, striking employees remain steadfast, rejecting invitations to return to work under the company’s committee.
As the strike continues into its fourth week, the tension between Samsung management and its workers shows no signs of abating. With critical demands for better working conditions and union recognition still unmet, the outcome of this protest may have lasting implications for the workforce at Samsung’s Chennai manufacturing unit.