In response to allegations that Foxconn, an iPhone manufacturer, discriminates against hiring married women at its Chennai plant, the Indian government has dispatched a team to investigate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally requested the investigation after reports surfaced in late June 2024.
According to Reuters, the federal labor department's team visited the Foxconn facility on July 1, 2024, where they interviewed executives and 40 married women employees. While the women interviewed did not report discrimination, officials are reviewing company policies and recruitment practices.
Regional labor commissioner A. Narasaiah stated that Foxconn denied any discriminatory practices and provided data indicating a significant female workforce, with a portion married. However, specific details about married women in critical roles, like iPhone assembly, remain undisclosed.
The accusation is politically sensitive in India, where Prime Minister Modi aims to empower women in the workforce. Apple, which relies on Foxconn for iPhone production, has emphasized its commitment to fair hiring practices and conducts regular audits to uphold standards.
As investigations continue, the outcome could impact Foxconn's operations in India, a region increasingly pivotal in global iPhone production.