Chennai, June 21: The Communist Party of India (CPI) has called on the Tamil Nadu government to withdraw its alleged decision to privatize sanitation and solid waste management services across municipal corporations in the state. The CPI argues that this move will adversely affect thousands of sanitation workers and violate the principles of social justice.
In a statement, CPI state secretary M. Veerapandian expressed concern over reports suggesting that the government plans to hand over sanitation operations to private agencies in several municipalities, including Tambaram, Avadi, Hosur, Vellore, Coimbatore, Erode, Salem, Tiruppur, Madurai, and Tuticorin.
He emphasized that sanitation work is an essential and permanent public service closely linked to public health and the welfare of urban residents. Veerapandian also noted that a significant portion of sanitation workers employed by local bodies comes from historically marginalized communities, and their livelihoods depend on these jobs.
He stated that in a society grappling with caste-based inequalities, pushing sanitation workers into a system where they lack job security, regular wages, pension benefits, and other labor rights is unjust.
The CPI leader highlighted that the party has consistently opposed contractual and private sector arrangements in sanitation services, alleging that such systems promote the exploitation of workers by private contractors. He reminded that the CPI, along with various leftist organizations and trade unions, has previously organized protests and campaigns against attempts to privatize sanitation work by past governments.
According to Veerapandian, previous administrations have repeatedly ignored demands to protect workers’ rights while continuing to expand private participation in sanitation services. He urged the current government to change this approach and instead strengthen public sector employment within local bodies.
The CPI has also demanded a long-term strategy to improve working conditions for sanitation workers. Veerapandian suggested that the government should gradually reduce reliance on manual cleaning by implementing modern technology, mechanized cleaning systems, and scientific waste management methods. He stressed that current sanitation workers should be provided with alternative employment opportunities, skill development programs, and adequate social security to prevent job losses due to technological advancements.
He concluded by stating that the government should prioritize social justice, worker welfare, and public health over privatization.
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