Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (UDN): ASHA workers across Odisha took to the streets on Tuesday, pressing the State government to address their long-standing demands for better wages, employment security and improved working conditions.
The protest was organised under the banner of the Odisha Milita ASHA Union, a state-level organisation affiliated with the All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC). Hundreds of workers from different districts gathered at Lower PMG Square in Bhubaneswar, while similar demonstrations were reported in other parts of the State.
The protesters called for formal recognition as government employees, a minimum monthly salary of Rs 28,000 and a monthly pension of at least Rs 10,000 after retirement.
Demand for Fixed Salary and Timely Payments
A key concern raised during the agitation was the existing incentive-based remuneration system. The union demanded a fixed monthly salary in place of payments linked to incentives, along with the timely clearance of all outstanding dues.
The workers alleged that despite their extensive responsibilities in delivering healthcare services at the grassroots level, they continued to face uncertainty over their earnings and employment status.
A union functionary told OTV that ASHA workers often carry out their duties beyond regular hours but have yet to receive formal government employee status. The representative also alleged that their monthly remuneration of Rs 7,000 was frequently delayed by several months.
The union urged the government to take immediate steps to address these concerns and ensure predictable monthly payments.
Eight-Hour Workday, Extra Pay for Additional Duties
The protesters also sought a clearly defined eight-hour working day, with additional remuneration for duties performed beyond the prescribed hours.
They stressed that clear working-hour guidelines would help establish accountability and improve working conditions for community health workers who play a vital role in connecting people with essential healthcare services.
The union also called for stronger workplace safety measures and broader social security coverage to protect workers during their service.
Pension and Health Benefits Among Key Demands
Beyond salary and employment status, the agitation highlighted concerns over retirement security and access to healthcare.
The union demanded a monthly pension of Rs 10,000 after retirement and sought social security benefits, including blood pressure and diabetes check-ups and other health examinations for ASHA workers.
It also called for dedicated rest rooms for ASHA workers in hospitals across the State, arguing that better facilities would support their welfare and enable them to carry out their responsibilities more effectively.
Union Leaders Lead Demonstration
Several union representatives, including Rajkishore Mallik, Ashok Sahu, Utpal Rout, Mamata Mallik, Champa Mallik, Sushanti Bara, Nirmala Behera and Kanchanbala Mallik, led the demonstration in support of the demands.
The workers maintained that their contribution to grassroots healthcare should be matched by fair remuneration, reliable payment schedules and adequate social protection.
Through the statewide protest, the union appealed to the Odisha government to initiate concrete measures on employee recognition, minimum wages, pending payments, pension benefits and workplace facilities.
The agitation brought renewed attention to the employment and welfare concerns of ASHA workers, whose demands centre on securing greater financial stability and formal recognition for their role in delivering community-level healthcare.