No Discrimination Found Against Married Women at Foxconn iPhone Factory in Chennai
A recent report by the Regional Labour Commissioner in Chennai has concluded that there is no evidence of discrimination against married women in employment practices at the Foxconn iPhone factory in Chennai. This investigation was prompted by media reports on June 26, which claimed that only unmarried women were eligible for assembly jobs at the factory.
The investigation involved detailed interviews and examination of records. Notably, a WhatsApp conversation between a married candidate and the hiring agency was mentioned in the media reports, where the candidate was told ‘married not allowed’ when inquiring about salary and childcare facilities.
The company denied any form of discrimination based on marital status, gender, religion, or any other criteria. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also took notice of these allegations. A team visited the plant and conducted thorough interrogations of 21 married female employees, all of whom confirmed that they were not facing any discrimination regarding wages and promotions. They also stated that they received maternity benefits and other welfare amenities as per the Labour laws in Tamil Nadu.
Foxconn’s management revealed that 2,520 married women are currently employed at the Chennai facility and reiterated their adherence to all relevant labor laws, including the Equal Remuneration Act and the Maternity Benefit Act. They assured the investigating team that no discriminatory practices are employed during recruitment, employment, or promotion processes.
After reviewing the submissions, records, and statements from married female employees, the report concluded that there is no evidence supporting claims of discrimination against married women in the recruitment and employment processes at the Foxconn Chennai iPhone factory.
The NHRC had taken suo motu cognizance of the media reports and issued notices to the Secretary, Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, calling for a detailed report on the matter within one week.
