BYD Electronics workers to intensify protest for better VRS

The workers of BYD Electronics, a supplier to Nokia's Sriperumbudur facility, are expected to strengthen their protest for a better Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) from the company.

Around 65 people of the total 1,500 workers have so far opted for the revised scheme, which will be closed by July 20, according to sources from the workers.

According to a BYD worker, the company has recently restructured its VRS offering keeping in mind the worker's experience.

Under the revised conditions, the company is offering Rs 1.2-2 lakh as compensation along with the reimbursement of some of the leave benefits for those having experience upwards of five years. However, for those having an experience of two years, it is around Rs 80,000 along with leave benefits. Further, it differs according to the grade of the employee.

However, the union was looking at strengthening its protest against the VRS offer, and a proper decision is expected after a general meeting scheduled on July 6. The union leader and the company officials were not available for comment.

Earlier, in a tripartite discussion involving workers, union leader and company officials, it was announced the facility will be closed by July 10.

The company has offered a compensation of Rs 50,000 under the VRS and a basic salary of two months, which the workers refused to accept. Around 850 out of the total 1,500 workers went for a strike, which led to the arrest of three individuals, a source from the workers said.

"I am getting a salary of Rs 7,500 even after working for six years here. We do not want to work here anymore, but we are expecting a better package," said a woman worker in the past. The workers were then asking for a Rs 3 lakh compensation and eight months salary for each year.

"The management in a meeting said they would close the facility from July 10. They have already started illegal lock out by sending all workers on leave with a one week salary," said Vetrivelchezhan, state organising secretary of New Democratic Labour Front (NDLF).