'ASHAs' problem won't be solved with strike; steps taken by government against drug abuse will be made public': Chief Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan clarified that the increase in the honorarium of Asha workers is a public issue and cannot be decided only as part of the strike. The Chief Minister clarified his stance in an interview given to a private channel.

"Kerala is the state that provides the best benefits to Asha workers. When some financial difficulties arose, some payments must have become arrears. The government has the responsibility to correct them. It is important to get central assistance but there has been no clarity from the centre in this regard. The government does not need to decide on any other action now.

The Left government is sure of a third term. The third term should not be seen as an individual thing. Critics are not seen as enemies but they will be given a strong reply. It was a mutual friendly discussion with the Union Finance Minister in Delhi. I think the discussion has been beneficial," the Chief Minister explained.

Campaign against drug addiction; Weekly press conference

The Chief Minister said that a widespread campaign against drug addiction is needed. "The steps taken by the government against drug abuse and its results will be made public to the people. It is necessary to inform the people of all the information. There is also a plan to hold a press conference once a week like during the Covid period," the Chief Minister said.

"If it comes to the attention of parents that their children are using drugs, it is of no use if they try to hide it. The services of the De-Addiction Center should be utilized. Parents should be willing to do so. Action is needed to correct those who do wrong. Teachers who volunteer to provide counselling to children will be trained. The real mafia operates in the drug sector."