Sanitation workers' union plans fresh protests across Chennai, seeks talks

The Uzhaippor Urimai Iyakkam, a union representing sanitation workers, has announced plans for another round of protests in Chennai. The move comes as the workers continue to press their demands on the State government, which they say has not yet responded to their call for negotiations.

K. Bharathi, president of the union, said the next demonstration could be staged at several locations. These include the Perambur Assembly constituency office, Panaiyur, or outside the residence of the Corporation Commissioner. The choice of venue, he indicated, would be decided based on where the protest would have the most impact.

The announcement signals an escalation in the workers' campaign, with the union leadership insisting that the government must come to the table to resolve their grievances. The workers have been demanding better working conditions and other benefits, though specific details of their charter of demands were not disclosed in the announcement.

The union's decision to target multiple locations, including the office of an elected representative and the residence of a senior civic official, underscores the growing frustration among sanitation staff. The workers appear determined to keep up the pressure until the State government agrees to hold formal talks.