Chennai: Tata Electronics’s facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, which manufactures components for Apple iPhones, has received a show-cause notice from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) over alleged violations of pollution norms. However, officials clarified that reports of an imminent closure are inaccurate.
Allegations of Land and Water Contamination
The company has allegedly contaminated land and opened wells in neighboring farmlands by discharging wastewater into its rainwater harvesting ponds, according to a report by Reuters. The facility has faced complaints from farmers, prompting officials to conduct five inspections between December and May 2026, the report noted.
TNPCB Confirms Notice
TNPCB authorities confirmed the development and stated that the agency has issued a show-cause notice but declined to provide further details. Officials familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that while the notice was served based on discrepancies, there are no plans to forcibly close the plant. “The procedures are part of the due process, and policy language includes the mention of cutting off power supply, but such actions are usually reserved only for gross violations,” the person said. The Tamil Nadu additional secretary of the environment, climate change and forest department could not be immediately reached for comments.
Tata Electronics Responds
A Tata Electronics spokesperson refuted reports about plant closure or shutdown and affirmed compliance with all regulatory norms. “The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board is still evaluating the reports submitted by Tata. There is no final verdict for now,” according to the spokesperson. The company, in a statement, said, “Immediately after hearing from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), we commissioned an independent analysis through an accredited laboratory. The independent study determined that we are in full compliance with all regulatory norms. We have conveyed our response to TNPCB accordingly in a timely manner.” Tata Electronics added that it is committed to responsible business practices and the protection of the environment and local communities.
Previous Incident
A massive fire temporarily halted production at Tata Electronics’s Hosur facility in October 2024.
