Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 31 Alleging persistent injustice and neglect, scores of Anganwadi workers and helpers today staged a protest demanding regularisation of their services, enhancement of honorarium, timely release of wages and pension cover.
The protesters attempted to assemble at the Press Enclave to hold a peaceful demonstration, but police prevented them from gathering, foiling the protest.
Speaking to reporters, the workers said they were being subjected to unfair treatment despite working tirelessly at the grassroots level on a meagre monthly honorarium, which, they alleged, is often delayed.
“We appeal to the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister and other ministers to understand our plight. On one hand, there is the slogan of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, but in reality, it seems to have become Beti Padhao, Sadak Pe Lao,” said one of the protesters.
She questioned why Anganwadi workers continue to be denied benefits while the Government is implementing the 8th Pay Commission and extending various facilities to other employees. “Why are we being subjected to such injustice?” she asked.
Another protester, Fehmeeda Shah, who was leading the demonstration, said they wanted to register a peaceful protest to press for their long-pending demands, but alleged that the police did not allow them to do so.
She said their issues must be raised during the upcoming Assembly session so that concrete steps could be taken to resolve them.
She stressed the need for enhancement of honorarium, regularisation of services and pension cover, besides immediate release of pending wages.
“We work tirelessly, yet our rights are denied. Gratuity should also be provided. If our demands are not met, we will continue to protest,” she added.
The protesters alleged that while their services are readily utilised, they are prevented from raising their voice when they take to the streets to demand their rights.
They said they have been raising their issues for years, including timely payment of salaries, higher honorarium and social security benefits, but their demands remain unaddressed.
They said that despite playing a crucial role in implementing child nutrition, health and welfare schemes at the grassroots level, they continue to be treated unfairly.
Many Anganwadi workers and helpers, they said, are struggling to make ends meet due to meagre wages and irregular payments, adding that regularisation of services and pension benefits are essential to ensure dignity and financial security for thousands of workers.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
