Women workers in the garment and textile sector in Tamil Nadu, India

General picture is one of violation of human rights, on basis ofage, gender and caste, as well as violation of workers’ rights.UNACCEPTABLE LIVING STANDARDS - Bad standard of food,accommodation and sanitationLIKE A PRISON “It is like a prison” - only allowed out one day a month - nofreedom of movement or associationEXCESSIVE WORKING HOURS - Standard 12 hour shift, with compulsoryovertime. Sometimes 8 am to 8 pm shift, followed by meal break thenworking from 9 pm to midnight or beyond. Frequent Sunday work whenorders needed completing, 7 day working.NON PAYMENT - of lump sum, sometimes when full 3 years work notcompleted.ABUSE - Sexual harassment and/or harsh and abusive treatment bysupervisersISOLATION - Lack of contact with parents, family and friends because ofdenial of leave, difficulty of visits and phone calls.