On 15 February 2024, Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers started a two-day protest at Lucknow’s eco-garden. These workers are demanding higher minimum wages and to be recognised officially as state employees.
The Uttar Pradesh ASHA Bahu Kalyan Samiti (UPABKS) called for the protest, bringing ASHA workers from all over the state to gather in Lucknow. During the protest, ASHA workers chanted slogans for better wages.
They are advocating for a minimum wage of Rs 18,000 for ASHA Bahu and Rs 24,000 for ASHA Sangini (supervisors), stating that their current earnings do not exceed Rs 12,000. The workers have emphasised the need for medical insurance, considering their constant involvement in health schemes and exposure to infections.
They are seeking a consolidated salary instead of payments for individual tasks, which would better support their families. Additionally, they call for recognition as state employees due to their involvement in various health and development programmes.
Recently, in Karnataka, over 20,000 ASHA workers gathered at Freedom Park for a two-day protest organised by Karnataka’s ASHA workers’ union. They demanded better working conditions and recognition for their crucial role. Key issues raised included fair payment, ending mobile-based work without incentives, and formal employee status with benefits.
