The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government on reports that Foxconn, a major manufacturer of Apple devices, has systematically excluded married women from jobs at its iPhone assembly plant in Sriperumbudur.

The commission has taken suo motu cognisance of a news report wherein it was alleged by a former HR executive at Foxconn India that verbal directions had been given to Indian hiring agencies by the company in this regard. It was also stated that the company does not hire married women because of cultural issues and societal pressure.

Foxconn has refuted the allegations of discrimination in employment based on marital status, gender, religion or any other form.

The commission has observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, raise a serious issue of discrimination against married women, violating the right to equality and equal opportunity.

The commission has issued notices to the secretary, Union ministry of labour and employment, and the chief secretary in the Tamil Nadu government calling for a detailed report within one week.

“It is the obligation of the state authorities to ensure that all companies follow the norms and regulations relating to labour laws and the right to health and dignity to any individual, including women...,” the NHRC said.