By TC News Desk
Agartala, 9th September 2024: Anganwadi and ASHA workers blocked National Highway No. 208 in the Belfang area of Khowai on Monday demanding better working conditions and recognition from the government. The blockade began at 9 AM lasted for six hours causing severe disruption to traffic and leaving many passengers stranded.
The protestors comprising workers from various government projects voiced their grievances against the state and central governments. “We work tirelessly day and night, yet our efforts go unrecognized. The government keeps increasing our workload without a corresponding increase in our salaries,” said one of the protestors. The workers highlighted that despite their dedication, they struggle to balance their professional and personal lives due to inadequate compensation.
The five-point demand list includes an immediate increase in salaries and allowances before Durga Puja, recognition as government employees, payment of gratuity, and other benefits. “Our salaries are meager. Anganwadi workers earn between Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000, while ASHA workers receive only Rs 2,000. This is not enough to sustain our families,” another protestor explained.
The situation escalated as more workers joined the blockade, swelling the crowd and intensifying the pressure on the authorities. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Megha Jain arrived at the scene to address the protestors. “I will communicate your demands to the higher authorities in writing,” Jain assured the crowd. However, the workers insisted that a written promise from the minister of their department to meet their demands before Durga Puja was necessary for them to lift the blockade.
The blockade caused significant inconvenience to commuters, with many vehicles stuck on both sides of the highway. “The government is responsible for our suffering,” commented a stranded passenger, reflecting the frustration of many.
The protest finally ended at 2:30 PM following the intervention of the Social Welfare Department, which promised to address the workers’ demands. The workers warned that if their demands are not met, they are prepared to resume their protest indefinitely.
This incident highlights the growing unrest among various sections of society, using national highways as focal points for their movements, and underscores the urgent need for the government to address their concerns.
