IT giant Wipro has permanently closed one of its manufacturing units in Himachal Pradesh’s Baddi, resulting in the layoff of around 80 employees. The decision, announced on May 24, 2025, comes in the wake of ongoing labour unrest and a strike that began in December 2024.
According to sources, workers were caught off guard by the shutdown. Employees arriving for their shifts were reportedly stopped at the gates and informed that the plant had been closed. Many expressed shock, stating they had resumed duties in December with no prior notice of the closure.
Wipro cited operational disruptions, huge financial losses, and economic unsustainability as the main reasons for winding up operations at the facility. Despite several rounds of negotiations between the company and the workers’ union, no resolution was reached. A key sticking point was Wipro’s refusal to withdraw police cases filed against some of the striking workers, hindering any potential settlement.
Wipro has assured that it will provide all the legally required compensation and support to the affected employees. However, the sudden layoffs have triggered widespread protests. The workers’ union has filed complaints with the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and the state Labour Department, seeking intervention and justice.
The closure of the Baddi unit- which was an important part of Wipro’s manufacturing work, is a major setback for both the local workers and the region’s industrial development. It’s worth noting that one Wipro factory in Baddi is still running.