THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala ASHA Health Workers Association has rejected the ultimatum of the National Health Mission (NHM) that the striking ASHA workers should return to work immediately. The leaders also said that to call off the strike, the government should accept the basic demands of the ASHA workers. The day and night protest and indefinite strike are being carried out by giving notice to the NHM State Program Officer and the Labor Commissioner as per the law. ASHA workers operate after getting training under the supervision of expert doctors. It was also clarified that the rules do not allow anyone else to be considered for this position immediately. The strike by ASHA workers in front of the Secretariat is entering its 17th day.

Janakeeya Prathirodha Samithi held a rally in front of the secretariat to express solidarity with the protesting ASHAs. Dr. K.P. Kannan, former economic advisor to the Left government, who inaugurated the rally, said that the government's hallmark is lying and corrupt morals. He also accused the government of presenting false figures to avoid paying even meagre wages to ASHAs. Samithi president, Dr. M.P. Mathai, presided over the rally. Dr. Azad, Dr. K.G. Tara, N. Subramanian, Joseph C. Mathew and others spoke.

Poet Sachidanandan in solidarity

Poet K Sachidanandan has expressed solidarity with the ASHA workers' strike. He said in an audio message that the ASHA workers' strike is an insult to the Left government.

Auto driver donates Rs 5000

Auto driver Ramesh from Pathanamthitta came in front of the secretariat and expressed solidarity with the ASHA workers' strike. He also donated Rs 5000 from his and his wife tailor Renuka's income.

Left organization against the strike

KOZHIKODE: The ASHA Workers Federation, under the auspices of the CITU, has come forward against the ASHA workers' strike. "The strike is unnecessary. The strike should be against the central government. A group of ASHA workers who were not seen in any other strikes held for the rights of ASHA workers are present in this strike," said state president P.P. Prema. They will protest against the centre in front of the Income Tax offices on Thursday and in front of Parliament on April 28.