In Chennai, a tragic incident occurred at an Aavin plant in Tiruvallur district, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old female employee named K Umarani. The unfortunate incident took place when her dupatta became entangled in a conveyor belt, causing a severe throat injury. Subsequently, the plant's supervisor, Varun Kumar, was arrested for negligence leading to Umarani's death and was taken into custody. Following the incident, Aavin management suspended two employees and initiated disciplinary actions against five others. The government has pledged compensation to Umarani's family and plans to implement uniform and safer dress codes to prevent similar accidents in the future.

According to the police, Umarani, who hailed from Bommiampatti in Salem, had recently joined the Kakkalur plant and was assigned to work in the packaging section. Tragically, while collecting milk packets from the conveyor belt, her dupatta got caught, dragging her towards the machinery and resulting in a fatal injury to her throat.

In response to this tragic event, the Minister for Dairy Development, Mano Thangaraj, emphasized the importance of reinforcing safety measures at Aavin plants. He noted the existing standard operating procedures (SOP) but highlighted the necessity to strengthen these protocols. Thangaraj mentioned the cultural challenges faced in implementing safety regulations, particularly regarding the attire of women employees working in hazardous areas. Discussions are underway to introduce safety overcoats as an alternative to dupattas to enhance workplace safety without disregarding cultural norms.

Umarani, survived by two children, is entitled to immediate compensation of 10 lakh rupees.I am the representative of the TN Milk Dealers Welfare Association, SA Ponnusamy. Thangaraj mentioned that discussions are underway between Aavin and the Tiruvallur collector to guarantee that the family receives suitable compensation, as well as their terminal benefits and settlements, without delay.