Samsung warns striking Indian workers as row escalates

Samsung Electronics is facing escalating tensions with its workers at a plant near Chennai. They have been on strike since September 9, demanding higher wages and union recognition. The plant contributes about a third of Samsung’s annual revenue in India, which totals $12bn. In an email to striking employees, Samsung’s HR team wrote: “You shall not be entitled to wages from 09.09.2024 to the date you report back to work on ‘No work No Pay’ basis,” warning of potential termination for continued absence. The workers, currently earning an average of Rs25,000 ($300) per month, are seeking a raise to Rs36,000 ($430) over three years. Despite ongoing discussions, Samsung remains reluctant to recognize any union backed by national labor groups such as CITU.