After nearly two weeks of relentless protests, Kerala’s Anganwadi workers have called off their strike following an assurance from Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal to address their demands within three months. The workers had been fighting for official recognition as government employees, a minimum salary of ₹21,000, timely wage payments, and better food supply standards.
The decision to suspend the strike came after the Minister pledged to review their concerns and take appropriate action within the given timeframe. However, the workers have warned that if no concrete steps are taken, they will resume their agitation with greater intensity.
While Anganwadi workers have temporarily ended their protest, the struggle continues for ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activists) workers. Three ASHA workers have launched an indefinite fast, demanding an increase in their honorarium and improved working conditions.
The government’s response has drawn criticism from political leaders, with MLA Najeeb Kanthapuram accusing authorities of neglecting the hardships faced by Anganwadi and ASHA workers. He stressed the need for urgent action to resolve their grievances.
The resolution of the Anganwadi workers’ strike is seen as a step forward in addressing the concerns of grassroots childcare and health workers. However, the ongoing ASHA protest underscores the pressing need for greater recognition and fair treatment of frontline workers in Kerala.
