Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu) [India], December 21 (ANI): In a shocking incident, female contract sanitation workers from Soranjeri Panchayat in Tiruvallur district were transported to a government-organised medical camp in a garbage-collecting tractor vehicle.

A "Nalam Kaakkum Stalin" (Stalin Safeguarding Health) medical camp and "Seemantha" (baby shower) ceremony for pregnant women were organised by the Public Health Department at a Government Higher Secondary School in Poonamallee, near Chennai.

Also Read | Delhi Air Pollution: Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa Warns of Tougher Crackdown Under GRAP-IV as 612 Non-Compliant Industries Face Closure Action.

However, the event sparked shock and controversy when it came to light that more than ten female contract sanitation workers employed were brought to the medical camp in a garbage-collecting tractor vehicle.

The event was attended by Poonamallee MLA Krishnasamy, who served as the chief guest.

Also Read | 'When You Look at Foreign Policy, You Must Have Clarity, Make Choices, Have a Game Plan', Says EAM S Jaishankar at Pune Book Festival.

More than 300 beneficiaries, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, pregnant women, and women, participated in the medical camp and availed healthcare services.

The workers claimed they were instructed by Executive Officer Priya to travel in the vehicle, sparking outrage over their treatment.

The incident triggered widespread discussion and criticism. The critics questioned the dignity and human rights of these essential workers, who maintain societal cleanliness, yet face such conditions, raising concerns about dignity, human rights, and the treatment of 'sanitation workers.'

The Nalam Kaakkum Stalin (Stalin Safeguarding Health) is a flagship healthcare initiative launched by the Tamil Nadu government on August 2, 2025. Its primary goal is to bring advanced medical services directly to the doorsteps of the poor and those living in underserved areas. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)