Belagavi
Hundreds of ASHA workers launched a three-day sit-in protest at the premises of Deputy Commissioner office, demanding the fulfilment of various demands, including an honorarium hike. Karnataka State United ASHA Workers’ Association initiated a day-night sit-in, demanding that their various demands, including a minimum honorarium of Rs 10,000, be met.
The protesters, who along with collaboration with the All India United Trade Union Center (AIUTUC), raised slogans against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and state government. The honorarium for anganwadi and midday meal workers was increased by Rs 1,000 in the state budget. Accordingly, the honorarium for ASHA workers should also be increased by Rs 1,000. The dismissal of ASHA workers in the name of population limit, unscientific valuation, and education survey should be stopped immediately, are some of their demands. The ASHA incentive increased by the central govt should be implemented in the state. The honorarium for urban ASHAs should be increased by Rs 2,000. Retired ASHAs should be given a place based on the West Bengal model, the protesters demanded.
