Samsung Strike Victory: TN Govt Confirms Major Worker Demands Met, Calls for Immediate Return

The Tamil Nadu government announced that Samsung India Electronics has accepted most of the demands made by workers who have been striking since September 9. The government has urged employees to resume work immediately.

Arrests and Release of Workers

On Tuesday night, some of the workers involved in the strike were arrested, but they were released after signing a bond. The magistrate cleared their release after the brief detention.

ADVERTISEMENT

Be part of our community by downloading and registering on the Angel One app. Your support helps us keep delivering quality content.

Union Registration Still an Issue

One major demand—registration of the workers’ union, supported by the CPI(M)-affiliated Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU)—remains unresolved. Samsung has so far declined to approve the union, citing political affiliations as the main reason.

Ongoing Court Case

Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu explained that Samsung has raised concerns about the union’s political ties. CITU took the matter to court on September 30, and the issue is now subjudice, which means it cannot be discussed publicly until the court makes a decision.

New Employee Benefits Introduced

In a positive development for workers, Samsung has agreed to provide additional incentives. Starting in October, employees will receive Rs 5,000 as a special monthly incentive. Additionally, the company will offer Rs 1 lakh in compensation if an employee dies on duty. Workers will also be provided air-conditioned transport and extra leave for family events.

Court Rules No Illegal Detention

CITU leader E Muthukumar filed a case in the Madras High Court, claiming that seven workers were wrongfully detained. However, the court ruled that the workers had been allowed to strike peacefully and were not illegally held.

Government Response to Protests

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin clarified that the arrests were in line with standard procedures, as the protestors did not have police permission. He emphasized that the government does not intend to suppress labor protests.

Samsung’s Sriperumbudur Facility

Samsung India Electronics operates a manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, producing consumer goods such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and televisions.

Industry Leaders Urge Resolution

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Tamil Nadu has called for a quick and peaceful resolution to the ongoing industrial dispute. CII Tamil Nadu State Council Chairman Srivats Ram praised the state’s business-friendly policies and stressed the importance of maintaining Tamil Nadu’s reputation as a leading destination for foreign investment.