Kerala ASHA Workers Step Up Protest, Plan Statewide March on May 5

ASHA workers in Kerala have decided to increase their protest and will launch a large statewide march on May 5. They are demanding better pay, fixed working hours, and official recognition for their hard work in the public health system.

ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers play a key role in Kerala’s health programs. They visit homes, help pregnant women, guide families on health issues, and support vaccination drives. Despite their important role, many workers say the government does not pay them enough or treat them fairly.

In the past few weeks, ASHA workers held several protests to raise their demands. However, they say the government has not responded properly. As a result, they have decided to step up their protest and organize a statewide march to draw more attention to their issues.

The ASHA workers’ unions have called on all members to join the march on May 5. They plan to walk through major cities and towns across Kerala. They hope the large number of participants will pressure the state government to act quickly.

One union leader said, “We work day and night to support the health system. The government uses our service but does not give us fair wages or respect. We want justice, and we will not stop until we get it.”

The protestors are asking the government to raise their monthly honorarium, provide proper allowances, and treat them as full-time employees. Many of them also want job security and health benefits, especially since they worked on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health officials say they are discussing the matter, but the workers want quicker action. They say they can no longer work under poor conditions.

As the May 5 march approaches, support for the ASHA workers is growing. Many people across the state recognize their valuable service and are calling on the government to listen to their demands.