Textiles Major Kitex Garments Under NHRC Radar

Kerala: According to the Kerala government, Kitex Garments, a textile company, was inspected after complaints to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) about low wages and inadequate facilities.

After the firm threatened to pull out of a Rs 3,500-crore project, the Kerala government and Kitex Garments were unable to reach an agreement.

Kitex company claimed in a statement that it had chosen to withdraw from the project owing to harassment from state government authorities.

After receiving multiple complaints from the NHRC, representatives from Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev's department visited the Kitex facility in Kochi on Monday to assess the situation.

Employees of the Kitex Group later organised a large protest over state government officials' alleged involvement in the company's operations. 

P Rajeev, on the other hand, stated that the department had taken no action against the firm.

"What is clear is that neither the state government nor any department had initiated any checks or action. The government did not conduct the checks suo motu. It was based on various complaints including that by MP Benny Behanan and MLA PT Thomas to NHRC," he said.

The minister further said, "There was an audio clip of a lady stating that there were Covid-related issues in the company and subsequently the health department conducted checks. There were also complaints about workers not getting minimum wages and them being made to stay without adequate facilities. If the company found any issues with the checks, they should bring it to the notice of the state government or specific department. They directly went to social media. The allegations they made are serious."

In response to the government, Kitex Group chairman Sabu Jacob said that he is being painted as a problem on purpose.

"My firm was hunted like an animal. No one came to help me. I have the freedom to choose my way. The government is giving the impression that the Rs 3,500 crores project never even existed. I have already received invitations from about nine states. Discussions are underway with ministers and other officials. It will take a little longer to make a final decision," he said.