Siliguri, 05th February: After a long-standing struggle, the state government has approved a 4% wage increase and maternity leave for ASHA workers. This decision has brought some relief to the workers, but they have said that it is only due to their persistent protests that the government was partially compelled to meet their demands.
ASHA workers stated that they have been campaigning for fair wage increases, social security, and various benefits for a long time. Although the 4% increase and approval of maternity leave are seen as a positive step, their main and important demands have not yet been fully addressed.
However, ASHA workers have made it clear that their core demands remain unmet, and this movement is far from over. They insist that the protests will continue until the government fully implements the promises it has made.
Darjeeling district ASHA workers’ president Namita Chakraborty said, “We are somewhat happy but not satisfied. Many demands are still pending. The government has partially listened to us, but the movement will continue until all our demands are fully met.”