Kerala's Health Minister to Discuss Asha Workers' Demands, Priyanka Gandhi Supports Protesters
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Synopsis
Kerala's Health Minister, Veena George, plans to meet with Asha workers protesting for better pay and benefits, while Priyanka Gandhi reiterates her support, emphasizing the importance of their role in the healthcare system amidst ongoing demonstrations.
Key Takeaways
- Veena George to meet Asha workers after 52 days of protest.
- Asha workers demand pay raise to Rs 21,000.
- Priyanka Gandhi shows support for Asha workers' rights.
- Third round of talks to include trade union representatives.
- Pressure mounts on the CPI-M government to resolve the protests.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 2 (NationPress) Following her discussions with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, Kerala's Health Minister Veena George has revealed plans to meet with the protesting Asha workers on Thursday, marking the 52nd day of their ongoing demonstration outside the State Secretariat.
The Asha workers are advocating for an increase in their monthly honorarium from Rs 7,000 to Rs 21,000, along with a one-time benefit of Rs 5 lakh upon reaching retirement age at 62.
Immediately after George's proposal for potential conciliatory discussions was issued, Wayanad Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, a vocal supporter of the Asha workers, took to social media to reaffirm her solidarity with the demonstrators.
"ASHA workers, the foundation of Kerala's healthcare framework, have been compelled to protest due to a lack of recognition for their struggles. They care for every village, household, and family in need, yet they have been neglected by the very system they uphold. We refuse to be silent. We are united with our ASHA sisters, honoring their sacrifices, resilience, and selfless dedication. Their struggle is our struggle," the Congress leader emphasized.
During her visits to her constituency, Priyanka Gandhi has frequently voiced her unwavering support for the workers and urged both the state and the central governments to fulfill their demands.
This Thursday will be the third round of conciliatory discussions, but it will be the first instance that the trade union factions of the CPI-M and Congress are included.
Previous discussions have not yielded results, as the involved parties have maintained their positions. However, there is a renewed sense of hope that the state government may provide assurances to the protesters regarding their demands.
With the 24th CPI-M Party Congress commencing in Madurai on Wednesday, the CPI-M-led government under Pinarayi Vijayan is feeling pressure, as the national leadership is eager to resolve these protests swiftly to avoid negative repercussions for the working-class party.
