Samsung workers protest to intensify as another round of talks fail

Samsung India Workers Union (SIWU) plans a massive strike on March 7 over suspended workers, amid ongoing negotiations with management.

The Additional Labour Commissioner on Wednesday held one more round of negotiations between the Samsung India Workers Union (SIWU) and Samsung’s management over the suspension of three union members, but it ended without a resolution.

SIWU, backed by Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), is planning to intensify its protest further and is planning a massive strike on March 7. A section of employees at Samsung’s factory in Sriperumbudur have been on strike for 15 days over various demands, including the reinstatement of the suspended workers.

E. Muthukumar, District Secretary, CITU Kancheepuram, alleged that the company is planning to suspend another 18 employees. The next round of talks is slated for February 24. “We are planning to hold a protest in Sipcot parks in Kancheepuram on February 21 and planning to hold a massive strike on March 7,” Mr. Muthukumar said.

“Samsung remains committed to resolving any issues by directly engaging with our workers. We do not condone illegal activities carried out by certain workers that threaten industrial peace and workplace safety. It is important for all employees to adhere to company policies, and those who violate these policies will be subject to disciplinary action after due legitimate process. Our priority is to maintain a safe and stable workplace for all workers,” Samsung India spokesperson said in a statement.