Chennai sanitation workers suspend protest after government talks

Sanitation workers in Chennai have agreed to suspend their 16-day protest at the Ripon building premises until October 3 following negotiations with state ministers. The meeting included ministers N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, A Rajmohan, and CTR Nirmal Kumar, alongside representatives from the Uzhaippor Urimai Iyakkam (UUI).

The government has agreed to several key demands, including a daily food allowance of Rs 50 starting in October, the provision of toilets and rest areas in all 200 wards by September 30, and the withdrawal of legal cases filed against workers and union leaders during previous protests. Additionally, the state promised 300 new battery-operated vehicles, raincoats by October 10, and compensation for nine workers who died on duty between May and August.

During the discussions, Minister Bussy Anand noted that the state's current financial condition, which he attributed to the previous administration, has limited the government's ability to meet all demands immediately. Ministers emphasized that the administration, led by Chief Minister Vijay, remains committed to finding a solution and will hold a second round of talks in early October.