Karnataka Independent Garment Workers Union (KIGWU) held a protest at Shahi Exports following the death of Kiran BM on 24 June as a result of suicide.
KIGWU says it is demanding an immediate stop to intimidation and harassment of workers following the incident.
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It also alleges the “factory lacks even the basic provisions laid under the Factories Act, 1947 for a safe and secure workplace, hygienic canteen and clean toilets.”
KIGWU claims workers face “harassment at the hands of the management” when complaining about inhumane working conditions [and] high and unachievable production targets.”
KIGWU alleges further actions are being taken to “stifle their [worker] voices”. It is urging the immediate stop of all unfair labour practices including the “criminal” intimidation of workers; compensation to the family of the deceased worker including benefits for all years of completed service and earnings for the remaining service, and dialogue in good faith with the Karnataka Independent Garment Workers Union to put in place corrective actions and mechanisms to ensure that such violations do not occur again in any Shahi factory.
Just Style reached out to Shahi Exports which said it was “deeply saddened by the unfortunate demise of our former employee, Mr. Kiran B.”
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By GlobalDataShahi Exports added it had proactively approached a third-party legal firm to conduct an independent, neutral investigation, and based on their findings, would take “all appropriate steps”.
Shahi Exports continued: “Shahi is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring a safe, fair, and respectful workplace. We have robust systems and programmes in place to uphold this commitment.
“We are aware of some unions and civil society organisations making unfounded allegations; however, we maintain engagements on a case-to-case basis to address concerns. India has robust laws governing this aspect, and we shall take all steps to conform to them.”
