Apple iPhone manufacturer Foxconn has clarified to the Indian government that 25% of its recent hires are married women, asserting that its safety protocols, which mandate all employees avoid wearing metal regardless of gender or religion, are not discriminatory. This response follows media reports suggesting that Foxconn does not hire married women, claims the company attributes to disgruntled job seekers who were not hired.

Foxconn, in an informal communication with the government, emphasized that such stipulations are not part of its hiring policy. Sources told Press Trust of India that these reports tarnish the image of India's burgeoning manufacturing sector.

In light of the media reports, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has requested a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu labour department regarding the alleged exclusion of married women from working at Foxconn's Apple iPhone plant in India.

Foxconn highlighted that 25% of its recent hires being married women equates to nearly one-third of the total female workforce being married, which compares favorably with other factories in the sector operating in India. The factory's workforce comprises 70% women and 30% men, with the Tamil Nadu plant being the largest employer of women in the country, employing up to 45,000 workers during peak periods.

The company also addressed concerns about Hindu married women being discriminated against for wearing metal ornaments, explaining that safety protocols require all employees to remove metal items, a standard practice across various industries. This rule applies equally to all employees, regardless of their marital status or religion.

According to sources, Foxconn stated that the media reports are based on anecdotal comments from a small number of individuals, possibly job seekers who were not hired or former employees.

Foxconn has not yet responded to an email query regarding these issues.