Employee Strikes at Samsung Facility in Sriperumbudur Over Wage Disputes

Employees at Samsung's Sriperumbudur facility have gone on strike demanding wage revisions and union recognition. The strike is affecting production at the plant, which employs around 1,750 workers. The industrial action started Monday in response to unmet demands, and a resolution with Labour department officials is being sought.

Labour unrest has erupted in the industrial belt of Sriperumbudur as a section of employees at Samsung's facility have launched a strike over wage revision and union recognition demands, sources indicated on Wednesday.

The Sriperumbudur facility, about 40 km from Chennai, employs around 1,750 workers in various shifts, producing consumer durable products. The strike commenced on Monday, with workers calling for better pay and official recognition of their union.

'We have repeatedly informed management of our demands, but they have consistently ignored them. We are demanding higher wages and recognition of our union,' agitating workers told PTI.

Samsung formed a union in July, including about 100 workers, which the current striking employees did not agree with. 'There is already a union backed by CITU. Why set up another one?' questioned a worker.

Production at the facility, operational for over 15 years, is expected to be impacted. Asked about Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's investment-seeking trip to the U.S., a worker stressed the need for protecting workers' fundamental rights.

'The government may secure investments worth crores, but workers' rights must be safeguarded,' he added. Employees, now under a temporary shelter outside the factory, await further discussions.

The Sriperumbudur industrial area houses various prominent companies including Hyundai and Saint-Gobain. A Labour department meeting on Wednesday with the striking employees was 'inconclusive,' and another meeting is set for Friday.

'We will continue the strike until then,' declared a worker. Samsung India maintains that employee welfare is a top priority and is engaging with workers to resolve their grievances.

'At Samsung India, the welfare of our employees is our top priority. We comply with all regulations and are committed to addressing any grievances while ensuring no consumer disruption,' a Samsung India spokesperson stated.

(With inputs from agencies.)