Siliguri, January 28 (Siliguri Chronicle) – A citizens’ convention was held by Nagarik Protirodh Manch near Baghajatin Park in Siliguri, protesting the government’s alleged neglect of ASHA workers’ demands and incidents of harassment faced by them.
Speakers at the convention reiterated the long-pending demands of ASHA workers and strongly criticised the way they have been treated. The gathering expressed solidarity with ASHA workers and called on the government to take immediate steps to address their issues.
Addressing the convention, Namita Chakraborty, Darjeeling district president of the West Bengal ASHA Workers’ Union, said ASHA workers from different parts of the state had marched towards Swasthya Bhavan on January 21 to press for their demands. She alleged that police tried to stop the marchers at several places.
In Siliguri, she claimed, around 30 ASHA workers were stopped and detained by police at NJP station. Despite the obstructions, the march continued, she said.
Chakraborty added that a meeting was later held at Swasthya Bhavan with five ASHA workers, but no satisfactory assurance was given by the authorities. She said the movement would continue until the government ensures permanent wages and fulfils all the demands of ASHA workers.
