Hair-cutting protest sparks national attention; Kerala government calls protest "politically motivated"
Thiruvananthapuram/New Delhi, April 1 – With the ongoing ASHA workers’ protest in Kerala entering a dramatic phase, state Health Minister Veena George arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday to discuss their demands with Union Health Minister J P Nadda.The visit comes just a day after the protest, which has been continuing outside the Kerala Secretariat for over 50 days, took a striking turn as several Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) cut their hair in a symbolic act of defiance. Some even shaved their heads, accusing the state government of apathy towards their long-pending demands.
Key Demands on the Table
Speaking to reporters in the national capital, George confirmed that the meeting with Nadda was pre-scheduled for April 1 after discussions between both ministries. She said the agenda includes:- Increasing incentives for ASHA workers
- Bringing ASHAs under the ambit of labour laws
- Discussing other related concerns around social security and benefits
Political Overtones and Public Solidarity
On Tuesday, members of the Congress party in Kerala echoed the ASHA workers’ unique protest method by also shaving their heads in a show of solidarity. However, the state government suggested the agitation was politically charged.Kerala Excise Minister M B Rajesh criticized the protest leaders, stating, “Those leading the protest do not want to resolve the issue. This is not a protest aimed at finding a solution to ASHA workers' problems — it is politically motivated.”
Rajesh further questioned the nature of the protest for targeting only the state government. “If they have no demands from the Centre and blame only the state, how is it not political?” he asked.
Background of the Protest
The ASHA workers, vital to Kerala’s grassroots public healthcare delivery, have been demanding better post-retirement benefits and an increase in their honorarium. Despite the prolonged protest, the state government's response has drawn criticism for being inadequate, prompting intensified actions from the demonstrators.As the situation garners national attention, the outcome of Veena George's meeting with J P Nadda could prove pivotal in shaping the future of Kerala's community healthcare workforce.
Last updated by a enewsx:
