Nokia Union President attempts suicide, say sources

Workers are depressed over various issues which has affected their job security in Nokia India

Nokia India Employees Union President M Saravanakumar has attempted suicide amidst the increasing depression among the workers in Nokia India's Chennai facility over their job security, according to sources.

Sources said that Saravanakumar, who has been leading the workers who are fighting for their job security, consumed a liquid mosquito repellent in front of the factory today. He was rushed to the hospital by the fellow workers and his life is not in danger, they said.

It may be noted that the Union has been fighting for the job security of the employees by taking up the apprehensions to the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court while the Rs 21,000 crore tax dispute between the Income Tax Department and Nokia India Pvt Ltd was taking place. It has also approached the State labour department and the State Government seeking job security for the workers.

However, the State Government has not responded to the request so far and the Nokia-Microsoft deal transferring the former's devices and services business were closed exempting the facility in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai. Around 2,000 out of the total 5,500 workers opted for the voluntary retirement scheme announced by the company though the Union is against the Scheme.