K Umarani, a 30-year-old female employee at the Aavin plant in Tiruvallur district, tragically passed away on Tuesday night when her dupatta became entangled in a conveyor belt, causing a severe throat injury. Subsequently, Varun Kumar, the plant's supervisor, was arrested on charges of negligence leading to Umarani's death and was taken into custody. The Aavin management took action by suspending two employees and initiating disciplinary measures against five others following the incident. Additionally, the government pledged to provide compensation to Umarani's family and implement uniform and safer dress codes to prevent similar accidents in the future.

Umarani, a resident of Bommiampatti in Salem, had recently joined the Kakkalur plant of Aavin earlier this year, where she worked in the packaging section. Tragically, while collecting milk packets from the conveyor belt for distribution at approximately 10:30 pm on Tuesday, her dupatta got caught in the machinery, leading to a fatal accident despite efforts to stop the unit and save her.

Minister Mano Thangaraj, responsible for dairy development, noted that there were existing standard operating procedures in place at all Aavin plants; however, the recent accident at Kakkalur emphasized the importance of reinforcing these safety measures. Thangaraj highlighted the challenge of encouraging female employees, particularly those working in high-risk areas like conveyor belts and packaging units, to avoid wearing dupattas due to cultural traditions, especially among workers from rural backgrounds. Discussions were underway to introduce overcoats to enhance safety while respecting cultural practices.

Umarani, survived by two children, deserves immediate release of a compensation amounting to 10 lakhs.SA Ponnusamy from the TN Milk Dealers Welfare Association mentioned that Aavin is discussing with the Tiruvallur collector to ensure timely compensation and settlements, as well as adequate terminal benefits for the family of the individual.