The streets of the capital city echoed with slogans on Tuesday as hundreds of ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers from across Odisha converged in Bhubaneswar to stage a massive state-level protest.
The agitators are pressing for permanent government employee status and a minimum monthly salary of Rs 28,000.
The protest was organised under the banner of the Odisha Milita ASHA Union, affiliated with AIUTUC. Demonstrating with banners and placards, the workers voiced deep frustration over their current working conditions, highlighting that despite working round-the-clock without fixed holidays, they still lack formal recognition as permanent government employees.
Key Demands Raised by the Union
Currently dependent on incentive-based allowances—which average around ₹7,000 per month and are frequently delayed—the ASHA workers have laid down a comprehensive charter of demands:
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Permanent government employee status
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A regular monthly minimum salary of ₹28,000
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A monthly pension of at least ₹10,000 upon retirement
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A fixed eight-hour work shift
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Additional remuneration for extra or specialised duties
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Complete replacement of incentive-based pay with regular monthly salaries
A Warning to the Government
Addressing the gathering, union leaders and representatives emphasised that grassroots healthcare delivery in Odisha heavily relies on ASHA workers, yet their tireless service continues to be overlooked and underpaid.
The protestors issued a stern warning to the administration, stating that if their legitimate demands are not fulfilled immediately, the agitation will intensify across the state in the coming days.
As the backbone of rural healthcare, the eyes of thousands of families are now fixed on how swiftly the government responds to these long-pending demands.
