INTUC's surprise change of heart; backs ASHA workers' strike

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The INTUC has announced its full support for the ASHA workers who are staging a continuous protest in front of the Secretariat. Earlier, INTUC had opposed this strike. While the UDF supported the agitation, INTUC had taken a different stance. However, the INTUC has now shifted its position and declared support for the protest.

In a statement, INTUC President R. Chandrasekharan explained that the decision was made following requests from Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan and K.C. Venugopal. He urged all unions and central trade unions in the sector to come together and protest collectively. Their goal is to pressure both the central and state governments to address the workers’ demands and protect their interests.

The INTUC also appealed to all political parties to back the strike and called on the Central-State governments to implement a 60:40 funding ratio. Additionally, the organization welcomed K.C. Venugopal's declaration in front of the Secretariat. He emphasized the importance of officially recognizing ASHA workers as employees and granting them the benefits they deserve.