Kerala ASHAs Stage March to Secretariat, Commemorate Historic Strike Anniversary
In a powerful display of solidarity, numerous Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in Thiruvananthapuram organized a march to the Secretariat and held a dharna on Tuesday. This protest marked the anniversary of their monumental 265-day strike, which spanned the majority of last year, highlighting their ongoing struggle for better working conditions and fair compensation.
Renewed Demands and Government Neglect
The ASHAs reiterated their longstanding demands, expressing strong discontent over what they perceive as government neglect. The workers are adamant that the state government must address their original requests, which include a significant increase in monthly honorarium to Rs 21,000, a one-time retirement benefit of Rs 5 lakh, and the regular disbursement of other promised benefits. They emphasized that these demands are directed at the state government, not the central government, as they primarily work under state jurisdiction.
Background of Protests and Recent Developments
Earlier this year, the ASHAs had engaged in a day-and-night sit-in protest in front of the Secretariat, which they withdrew on November 1, 2025, following the state government's announcement of a Rs 1,000 increase in monthly honorarium. However, this concession did not fully satisfy the workers, leading them to continue their protests at the district level. The recent march and dharna serve as a reminder of their unresolved grievances and the need for more comprehensive solutions.
Key Points of the Protest:- Commemoration of the 265-day strike that dominated last year.
- Demands for increased honorarium and retirement benefits.
- Focus on state government responsibility for meeting these demands.
- Ongoing protests despite previous government concessions.
The ASHAs' persistent efforts underscore the critical role they play in Kerala's healthcare system and their determination to secure better livelihoods through sustained advocacy and public demonstrations.
