Thousands of Anganwadi workers and helpers across Odisha have strongly opposed what they describe as the state government’s dilly-dallying approach toward their legitimate demands, warning of an indefinite statewide cease-work agitation starting November 23.
The announcement was made by Kunjalata Das, General Secretary of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS)-affiliated All Odisha Anganwadi Ladies Workers Association, during a press conference held at the BMS office in Bhubaneswar on Sunday.
Das stated that the decision to launch the indefinite strike was finalized during the association’s executive committee meeting held on November 12. Highlighting their vital contributions to maternal and child nutrition, healthcare, and pre-school education, the association lamented that Anganwadi workers have faced years of systemic neglect.
Prior to this ultimatum, workers had staged a demonstration in front of the Odisha Legislative Assembly on September 30 and held protests in Rayagada and several other districts on November 8. However, the association alleged that the state government continues to turn a deaf ear to their grievances.
Key Demands of the Association:
- Government Employee Status & Fair Wages: Recognition as regular government employees, along with a monthly remuneration of ₹30,000 for Anganwadi workers and ₹15,000 for helpers.
- Gratuity & Poll Promises: Immediate implementation of the Supreme Court’s directive to provide gratuity to all workers and helpers, alongside the fulfilment of promises made in the 2024 election manifesto.
- Retirement Benefits & Service Extension: Revocation of the directive mandating annual performance reviews for workers above 55 years of age, and the provision of a two-year service extension after reaching 60. The union also demanded one-time retirement assistance of ₹10 lakh for workers and ₹5 lakh for helpers.
- Promotions & Compassionate Support: Removal of the age limit for worker promotions, and in the event of a worker’s death while in service, financial assistance of ₹5 lakh along with a government job for an eligible family member.
