Sanitation Worker Returns 45 Sovereigns: Chief Minister Rewards Her With Rs. 1 Lakh

A sanitation worker from the Thyagaraya Nagar area of Chennai was honoured by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin for her honesty after she returned gold jewellery worth about Rs. 45 lakh that she found while on duty.
Padma, a cleanliness worker engaged in garbage collection in Thyagaraya Nagar, noticed a bundle of gold jewellery lying on the roadside on Monday. Displaying exemplary integrity, she decided to ensure that the valuables were returned to their rightful owner and went to the Pondy Bazaar Police Station, where she handed over the jewellery to the police.
During verification, the police found that the bundle contained 45 sovereigns of gold jewellery. After conducting inquiries, the police traced the owner and handed over the jewellery. Police officials commended Padma for her honesty and sense of civic responsibility.
The incident drew widespread attention after it surfaced on social media, with many people praising Padma for her integrity despite her modest means. The act was hailed as a reminder of ethical values and honesty in public life.
Recognising her exemplary conduct, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin felicitated Padma by draping a shawl over her shoulders and presented her with a cheque for Rs. 1 lakh as a reward. He appreciated her sincerity and said such acts of honesty set an inspiring example for society.
The honour accorded to Padma has been widely welcomed, with several sections of the public lauding her as a symbol of honesty and dedication to duty.