Karnataka: Anganwadi workers announce statewide protest demanding hike and job security

Anganwadi workers across Karnataka have once again raised their voices against the state government, demanding the fulfilment of key promises made to them. Under the leadership of AIUTUC, a statewide protest and dharna satyagraha has been scheduled for August 12, 13, and 14. The workers have also called for a complete Anganwadi bandh during this period.

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The protesters are demanding implementation of the minimum monthly honorarium of Rs 10,000, a commitment made by the Chief Minister, along with the inclusion of the Central government’s incentive component. They insist that this revised honorarium should be implemented from April 2024 onwards, as previously announced.

In addition to financial demands, workers are also pushing back against what they call "unscientific" performance appraisals for ASHA workers. They are urging the government not to dismiss any ASHA worker based on flawed evaluation systems and instead provide them with better pay and job continuity.

Among other key demands are: extending incentives to mid-day meal and ASHA workers, ensuring West Bengal-like retirement benefits for ASHA workers, and the implementation of the 2025 central incentive revision in Karnataka.