How Long Will Samsung Employees' Protest Chennai Continue? Ninth Day of Strikes Demands Better Conditions

Chennai, September 17, 2024: The protest by Samsung employees in Chennai has reached its ninth day, continuing at Sungavachatiram near Sriperambathur on the outskirts of Kanchipuram District. The workers, led by union head E. Muthukumar, are calling for higher wages and improved working conditions.

The strike began after unsuccessful negotiations with the state labour department and labour minister last week. Employees, dressed in their company uniforms, are demonstrating outside the plant, highlighting their grievances.

On Monday, the protestors faced police intervention when they entered Kanchipuram. They were detained but released later that evening. Over 100 employees have been charged in connection with the protest.

Muthukumar from CITU (Centre of Indian Trade Unions) criticized the management for blocking the formation of an independent union. He claimed that the company had pressured workers into working overtime for up to 11 hours and had hindered the union's recognition by raising complaints. Muthukumar emphasized that management's refusal to allow a separate union and its efforts to undermine the existing union were key reasons for the ongoing strike. He urged the government to intervene and resolve the issue permanently, expressing hope that upcoming talks will yield positive results.

CITU's Tamil Nadu Deputy General Secretary, Kannan, reported that 104 employees were arrested on Monday while attempting to present their demands to the district collector. He called for the immediate withdrawal of the cases filed against the employees.

Kannan also announced that all trade unions and employee federations will participate in a joint protest at Valluvarkootam in Chennai tomorrow evening.

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