Tiruppur Powerloom Weavers To Go On Indefinite Strike Over Wage Demands

The Tiruppur District Job-Working Powerloom Weavers Association, representing 1.5 lakh members, has called for an indefinite strike starting March 19 to demand a wage hike.

The announcement follows days of protests as the weavers press textile manufacturers to address escalating costs. S.E. Boopathy, the association’s treasurer, highlighted the urgency, stating, “Expenses like power tariffs, rent, and spare parts have surged over the past three years. We need a new wage hike to keep up.”

Tiruppur and Coimbatore, with 2.5 lakh powerlooms, employ 4 lakh workers and produce 1.25 crore metres of fabric daily.

Experts warn the strike could cost the industry ₹35 crore daily. Historically, wages have been revised every three years since 1991 through tripartite talks involving weavers, manufacturers, and district officials. A 15% hike agreed upon in February 2022 remains unimplemented, fueling discontent.

The weavers are now split: the Tiruppur and Coimbatore Powerloom Weavers Association, with 1 lakh members, seeks enforcement of the 2022 deal, while another faction demands a fresh revision.

The Tiruppur district administration is mediating, with Assistant Labour Commissioner S. Prema noting, “We’re bridging the divide between those wanting the old hike and those pushing for a new one. Consensus is key.”

The District Collector has urged unity, with talks planned soon. With 3 lakh more indirectly reliant on the industry, a prolonged standoff could cause wide ripple effects across the economy.