Andhra Pradesh leaders questions Kerala Government's stance over ASHA worker's strike

MADURAI: ASHA workers in Kerala have been protesting for over 50 days, with some even shaving their heads and launching an indefinite hunger strike. They are demanding recognition as formal government workers, increased benefits, and a pay hike. The workers are unhappy with their current honorarium and lack of retirement benefits.

In a dramatic decision, some ASHA workers cut their hair and marched through Thiruvananthapuram, holding up their chopped hair as a symbol of their struggle.

The strike has gained significant attention, with thousands of ASHA workers blockading the Kerala secretariat to press their demands. Despite weeks of protests, the government has not addressed their concerns effectively. Talks between the Health Minister and ASHA workers have failed to reach a resolution, with the minister proposing a committee to study the issues, which was not accepted by the workers.

Meanwhile, leaders from Andhra Pradesh have criticized the Kerala government's handling of the strike. They question why a Left government is not responding more sympathetically to the strong agitation led by women. Even after two months, the government has failed to resolve the strike, prompting criticism.

Additionally, there has been criticism within the CPM regarding the party's leadership and its response to political challenges. The Polit Bureau members have faced criticism for not being proactive, and there are concerns about the lack of promotion of second-tier leaders within the party.

In the discussion on the political review report, Kerala's criticism was raised as to where the other PB members were when Brinda Karat raised the issue.

Even the PB members working in Delhi did not show diligence in this regard. Another criticism is that the national leadership failed to promote second-tier leaders. Prakash Karat and Sitaram Yechury were brought up by EMS. Such kind of political mentorship didn't happen afterwards and that is why Prakash Karat had to present a political report in the absence of party general secretary.

There was also criticism regarding the issue that when a group of people is about to be vacated due to age limit, the question of who will replace them remains unanswered.