Supporting the Asha Workers' Strike in Kerala: A Call for Justice
The ongoing strike by ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers in Kerala highlights a long-standing issue of underpayment, overwork, and lack of recognition for their crucial role in the healthcare system. As someone who values fairness and labor rights, I strongly support their demands and believe it is time for the government to acknowledge their contributions with appropriate compensation.
The Hardships of ASHA Workers
ASHA workers serve as the backbone of community healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas. Their responsibilities include:
1. Providing Primary Healthcare – They assist in maternal and child care, immunization programs, and disease prevention, ensuring that even the most remote communities receive medical attention.
2. COVID-19 and Epidemic Response – During the pandemic and disease outbreaks, they played a critical role in contact tracing, vaccination drives, and spreading awareness, often risking their own health.
3. 24/7 Availability Without Proper Pay – Unlike government employees, they are not given fixed salaries but are instead paid incentives based on specific tasks. This often results in extremely low and inconsistent earnings, despite working long hours.
4. Lack of Benefits – They do not receive social security benefits like pension, paid leave, or health insurance, making their job highly insecure.
Why They Deserve Higher Pay
The demand for better wages is not just a matter of financial support but also about justice. Here’s why ASHA workers need to be paid more:
Fair Compensation for Essential Work – Their work directly impacts public health, reducing maternal mortality, improving child nutrition, and controlling the spread of diseases. Such essential services must be fairly compensated.
Recognition as Formal Workers – Despite being an integral part of the healthcare system, they are classified as "volunteers," depriving them of the rights and benefits given to other government employees.
Encouraging More Women in Healthcare – Most ASHA workers are women, and fair wages would empower them economically, leading to better social and financial stability.
Sustaining the Healthcare System – Without proper pay, many ASHA workers may quit, leading to gaps in healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.
A Call for Action
The Kerala government has been a model for social welfare, but failing to address the demands of ASHA workers contradicts its commitment to labor rights. I urge the authorities to:
1. Provide a Fixed Monthly Salary instead of the current incentive-based payment.
2. Grant Social Security Benefits such as pension, insurance, and paid leave.
3. Ensure Job Stability by officially recognizing ASHA workers as government health employees.
Supporting the ASHA workers' strike is not just about wages; it is about respect, dignity, and justice for those who have dedicated their lives to public health. Their fight is a fight for a better healthcare system, and we must stand with them in solidarity.
-Adv. Akhil Jk-
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