Chennai Sanitation Workers Battle Privatization for Job Security

Sanitation workers in Chennai protest against privatisation of waste management services, demanding permanent jobs. Demonstrations have persisted for six days, as workers express their grievances and urge the government to fulfill past promises. The potential switch to private contractors threatens their job security and raises concerns about exploitation.

In a determined stand against the Greater Chennai Corporation's (GCC) decision to privatise solid waste management services, hundreds of sanitation workers continued their protest for the sixth consecutive day on Wednesday. They gathered outside the GCC office, demanding the city rollback its privatisation plans in the Thiru Vi Ka Nagar and Royapuram zones.

Protestor and sanitation worker Subba has made a personal plea to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, requesting him to view the workers as his 'daughters and sisters' and grant them permanent employment. Subba emphasized the workers' loyalty and trust in the government, despite its absence during their protest.

The planned privatisation, set to commence on August 1, threatens two of the remaining zones under direct GCC management, sparking fears of job security and vulnerability to exploitation among workers. Private contractors already manage ten out of fifteen zones, raising concerns across multiple trade unions and community members.

(With inputs from agencies.)