Fri Dec 12 23:22:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Sanitation workers in Chennai, India, protested against the outsourcing of conservancy operations in Royapuram and Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar zones. The protests, ongoing for over 100 days, intensified with workers blocking roads near the Secretariat and the memorial of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. Police detained 424 workers, with one woman reportedly injured. The workers claim that government officials were holding talks to find a solution to protect the interests of the workers. The Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department submitted in court on Thursday that talks have not progressed towards finding an alternative to outsourcing of conservancy operations.

News Article:

Chennai Sanitation Workers Detained Amid Outsourcing Protests

Chennai, December 13, 2025 – Hundreds of sanitation workers were detained in Chennai on Friday as protests escalated against the outsourcing of conservancy operations. The demonstrations, which have been ongoing for over three months, caused significant traffic disruptions near the Secretariat and Marina Beach.

Police detained 424 workers after they attempted to block Kamarajar Salai and surrounding roads, demanding an end to outsourcing and permanent employment. The workers have been protesting against the outsourcing of sanitation services in the Royapuram and Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar zones.

According to reports, tension arose during the detentions, with workers resisting police action. Protesters were transported to community halls in several locations. One woman reportedly sustained injuries during the demonstration.

The Uzhaipor Urimai Iyakkam stated the protest were in response to Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department submission to the court that talks have not progressed towards finding an alternative to outsourcing of conservancy operations.

Workers said some government officials have been involved in talks to find a resolution that protects workers’ interests. However, according to the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department, these talks have been fruitless in finding an alternative to outsourcing. The situation remains tense as workers await further developments.

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