Tata iPhone Parts Plant Faces Health Probe in Tamil Nadu After Farmer Complaints

Tamil Nadu health officials are investigating complaints from farmers near Tata Electronics’ iPhone components factory in Hosur after concerns were raised over wastewater, groundwater quality, and reported skin-related issues.

The plant, located in Ullugurukkai village, makes iPhone back covers and other components. The issue has drawn attention as Tamil Nadu continues to play a major role in India’s growing electronics and iPhone manufacturing sector.

Farmers Raise Water Contamination Concerns

According to the report, farmers living near the facility alleged that wastewater from the factory had entered agricultural land, streams, and nearby water sources. Some farmers claimed that the water had become unsuitable for cultivation and that crops were being affected.

A government medical officer reportedly wrote that wastewater had accumulated in nearby agricultural lands and may have contaminated clean water in wells. The letter also mentioned complaints of skin-related health issues among people in the area.

However, officials have said that no skin cases have yet been clinically confirmed.

Water Samples Sent for Testing

Health officials submitted water samples from farms to a state government laboratory for testing. The report said two samples tested positive for E. coli, a bacterium that can indicate sewage-related contamination.

The probe is still ongoing, and officials are awaiting another set of test results. The findings are expected to be important in deciding whether the complaints are linked to industrial discharge or other sources of contamination.

Pollution Board Notice and Tata’s Response

The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board had earlier issued a warning notice to the Tata Electronics plant over alleged groundwater contamination near farms. The board had sought an explanation from the company and warned that action could be taken if violations were established.

Tata, however, said that the pollution board had dropped its scrutiny after recent water samples collected from inside the facility did not show contamination. The company has denied that the latest internal sample results indicate any pollution from the plant.

Apple has not commented on the issue.

Why the Case Matters

The Hosur plant is important for India’s electronics manufacturing push, especially as Apple continues to expand iPhone production outside China. Tamil Nadu has become a major industrial hub, with large factories operated by Tata, Samsung, Hyundai, and other companies.

The dispute has now become a sensitive issue involving farmer livelihoods, public health, industrial growth, and environmental monitoring.

For residents, the immediate concern is clean water and safe farming. For the state, the case highlights the need for strong checks on wastewater treatment, groundwater quality, and public health protection around fast-growing industrial zones.

The investigation’s final findings will be closely watched by farmers, regulators, environmental groups, and the electronics manufacturing industry.