Workers strike in Samsung's Chennai plant

Workers strike in Samsung’s Chennai plant

Workers at Samsung's Chennai plant are on strike demanding better wages, working conditions and recognition of their newly formed union, the Samsung India Workers Union (SIWU). The SIWU has filed for registration to gain legal recognition under the Trade Union Act.

Table of Contents

Challenges Faced by SIWU

Registration Issues: The SIWU’s application for registration is currently pending in the Madras High Court. Without this registration, the union lacks legal standing and protections that would facilitate collective bargaining and safeguard its members during strikes.
Samsung’s no union policy: Samsung has maintained a ‘no union’ policy since its inception more than 80 years ago. But in July 2021, Samsung Display workers were successful in getting a 4.5% wage revision through negotiation.

About Trade Unions Act 1926

It is a landmark legislation in India that provides for the registration of trade unions and associations of employers:
It aims to promote cordial relations between employers and employees, and to facilitate peaceful dispute resolution.
Trade Union: According to Section 2(h), a trade union is defined as a combination of workers formed primarily to regulate relations between workmen and employers, or among workers themselves, or between employers.
Registration: The Act allows for the registration of trade unions, which is not mandatory but highly beneficial. Registered unions enjoy legal recognition, which grants them certain protections and privileges.

Fact

The Act does not grant an absolute right to strike; rather, it provides limited rights under specific conditions.
Right to strike is recognized as a legal right but is subject to statutory restrictions under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, which governs industrial relations in India.