New Delhi: Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan has stated that Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers are familiar with the state government’s obligation to fully support them. He also pointed to the low turnout at the continuous protest outside the Secretariat as evidence of this support.
Despite the small number of demonstrators, the CM has stated that the government had not overlooked their demands. He further stated that they have also held six rounds of discussions with the workers who are protesting. He mentioned that many steps had already been taken in the past to improve their working conditions.
During a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayan mentioned that the government is not opposed to the workers’ dissent. He has expressed the government is willing to increase the honorarium once the financial conditions improve.
“An overwhelming 99 per cent of ASHA workers understand that the government does not intend to harm them. They believe we are here to help, which is why they continue to perform their duties instead of joining the protest,” the CM said.
The Chief Minister also stated that a committee has been proposed—during a meeting. It includes Health Minister Veena George and major trade unions representing ASHA workers to study the concerns of workers. The committee has been asked to submit a report within three months. The proposal was welcomed by the Trade Union minister, but the primary organisation leading the protest rejected it and chose to continue their agitation.
