Foxconn Prohibits Hiring Married Women In India, Says Reports

Foxconn, a key supplier for Apple, is under scrutiny for discriminatory practices at its iPhone plant in Chennai, India. A recent Reuters investigation revealed that the company has been rejecting job applications from married women, citing family responsibilities, pregnancy, and higher absenteeism as reasons for preferring unmarried candidates. S. Paul, a former HR executive at Foxconn India, explained that the company's reluctance to hire married women stems from cultural and societal pressures.

Paul stated that Foxconn believes married women face numerous challenges, such as having children, which increases risk factors. He noted that the company views many issues as arising after marriage, including childbirth. The investigation found that not only Paul but also 17 employees from various Foxconn hiring agencies and four current and former Foxconn HR executives supported these claims. Some hiring agencies even help women conceal their marital status to secure employment, and married Hindu women's jewelry was said to interfere with production.

In response to these allegations, both Apple and Foxconn acknowledged lapses in their hiring practices in 2022 and claimed to have taken corrective measures. However, Reuters documented ongoing discriminatory practices against married women in 2023 and 2024 at the Sriperumbudur plant near Chennai.

Apple denied the discrimination reports, stating it upholds the "highest supply chain standards in the industry" and noting that Foxconn does employ some married women in India. Apple emphasised that it took immediate action when concerns were raised in 2022, conducting monthly audits with Foxconn to ensure compliance with high standards.

Foxconn also denied the allegations, stating it "vigorously refutes allegations of employment discrimination based on marital status, gender, religion, or any other form." The company added that nearly 25 per cent of the women hired in its latest round of hiring were married, though it did not specify the number or their employment locations.

In response to the Reuters report, the central government has requested a "detailed report" from the Tamil Nadu government. The Ministry of Labour and Employment, citing the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976, emphasised that the law prohibits discrimination in hiring based on gender. The ministry also directed the office of the Regional Chief Labour Commissioner to provide a factual report on the matter.