Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday criticised the Kerala government over the low honorarium of ASHA workers in the state, calling their ongoing protest a fight for ‘dignity and respect.’
“It is appalling that women who are the backbone of society should have to beg for their rights like this. Instead of justice, all they have got from the Kerala government is apathy and attempts to silence them,” the Congress leader wrote in a post on X.
https://x.com/priyankagandhi/status/1895846035731460316
The Wayanad MP pointed out that while ASHA workers in Karnataka and Telangana receive higher wages, those in Kerala are paid a meagre Rs 7,000.
While expressing solidarity with the protesting workers, she reiterated that the Congress-led UDF would ensure better wages and due recognition for them if voted to power in the state.
Highlighting the crucial role of ASHA workers in India’s public healthcare system, Priyanka also noted that they have been on the frontline during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and have ensured healthcare access for marginalised communities.
“ASHA workers are one of the greatest strengths of our public health system, selflessly serving communities, especially in times of crisis. They became an integral part of India’s healthcare network during Dr Manmohan Singh’s first term as Prime Minister. From risking their lives on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19 to providing maternal care and health services to countless families across India, they have ensured that healthcare reaches even the most marginalised,” read Priyanka Gandhi’s post.
“In Kerala, ASHA workers are protesting for a rightful increase in their meager honorarium of 7000 Rs, far less than what their counterparts receive in Karnataka and Telangana. Their fight is a fight for dignity and respect,” the post stated.
“It is appalling that women who are the backbone of society should have to beg for their rights like this. Instead of justice, all they have got from the Kerala government is apathy and attempts to silence them. The Indian National Congress stands in unwavering solidarity with Kerala’s ASHA workers. My sisters, your fight will not be in vain. When the UDF comes to power next year, we will ensure that your wages are raised and that you receive the respect and recognition that you rightfully deserve,” read the post further.
Earlier last week, the Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers went on an indefinite strike against the Left Democratic Alliance (LDF) government in Kerala, demanding better salaries.
Following the strike, senior Congress leader KC Venugopal said that United Democratic Front (UDF) MPs would take the issue to Parliament.
He extended support to the protesting ASHA workers and advised the Kerala government to shed its arrogance.
“Their demands are just and fair. UDF MPs will take this issue to the Indian Parliament. The state government must shed its arrogance. This is a legitimate protest, and the Congress party fully supports it,” Venugopal said.
Suggesting that the Kerala government acknowledges the demands of ASHA workers, Venugopal said that they were not asking for charity but their rightful dues.
The Congress-led UDF has extended support to the ongoing strike by ASHA workers, who have been protesting against the state government since February 10 while demanding a hike in their salaries.-ANI
