Berlin: Tesla is facing serious allegations from Germany’s largest industrial union, IG Metall, which claims the company is wrongfully withholding salaries from workers on sick leave at its factory near Berlin.

Allegations of Unfair Treatment for Sick Workers
In a statement issued on Friday, IG Metall accused Tesla of frequently retroactively questioning employees’ medical certificates and pressuring them to waive their right to medical confidentiality. The union claims this has resulted in some workers being denied their salaries while on sick leave.

According to IG Metall, Tesla often cites alleged “debts” or “overpayments” to justify withholding pay. In some instances, workers are reportedly encouraged to sign mutual termination agreements under pressure.

Growing Scrutiny on Tesla’s Labor Practices in Germany
The allegations come as Tesla faces mounting challenges in Germany. Since January, the company has been losing market share in Europe’s largest car market. At the same time, CEO Elon Musk is facing criticism for his perceived support of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party during recent parliamentary elections.

In a further complication, four Tesla vehicles were set on fire in Berlin overnight from Thursday to Friday. Authorities are investigating the incident and have suggested there may be a political motive behind the arson.

Union Sees Surge in Worker Complaints
IG Metall says Tesla workers at the Grünheide factory, which employs over 11,000 people, are 21 times more likely than the national average to seek union assistance in labor disputes. However, the union declined to provide exact numbers on how many workers are affected.

Tesla Denies Mass Disputes, Downplays Allegations
Tesla’s management responded to the claims in an interview with German tabloid Bild, stating there are only about a dozen such cases each month.

“To speak of a mass action here is a deliberate distortion of reality,” the company said. Tesla has not issued an official response to multiple requests for comment from AFP.

Tensions Rise Amid Industrial Disputes
The Grünheide factory has been a focal point of labor tensions since it opened. IG Metall has been actively organizing and representing workers, raising concerns over working conditions, pay disputes, and the company’s treatment of employees.

As investigations continue and public scrutiny intensifies, Tesla’s handling of labor relations in Germany is likely to remain under the spotlight.