Employees at Samsung Electronics' Sriperumbudur plant in South India have initiated a protest demanding higher wages and improved working conditions. The plant, which produces electronic goods and employs around 1,800 workers, plays a crucial role in contributing 20-30 per cent of Samsung India’s annual revenue of $12 billion.
The strike, now in its second day, has caused significant disruptions. According to a report from Reuters, nearly half of the plant’s daily output was affected on Monday as many employees stayed away from work to advocate for better wages, fair working hours, and union recognition. Posters declaring an "indefinite strike" were displayed outside the factory, while hundreds of workers in uniforms set up tents in protest.
A Samsung spokesperson commented that the company is in active discussions with the workers, ensuring that they address grievances while complying with local laws and regulations.
The protest saw approximately 800 workers sign a register outside the plant to mark their participation. One key demand from the workers is equal pay for employees with similar levels of experience, according to the report.
This strike in India follows a larger protest by 36,500 union members at Samsung Electronics’ South Korean facilities in July and August. The timing of the strike in India, just ahead of the festive season when consumer demand typically spikes, poses a significant challenge for the company.
