ASHA workers began resting at home protest against govt’s failure to fulfil demands

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 30, 2023

The Meghalaya ASHA Workers’ Union (MASHAWU) on Monday decided to hold agitation by taking rest at home till the state government is ready to fulfil their long pending demands.

The decision was taken after a meeting with the health minister Ampareen Lyngdoh.

Speaking to media persons, MASHAWU president Mirajune Myrsing said that the health minister has assured to take up the demand for enhancing the monthly honorarium with the chief minister on November 6.

“Therefore, we have decided to take rest as we will wait for the outcome of the meeting to be held between the chief minister and the health minister on November 6. If the outcome is not satisfactory, we will decide on our next course of action,” Myrsing said.

Adviser of the Union Sony Kharjana said the minister was also apprised about the various other grievances of the ASHA workers which include 100% coverage of health benefits under MHIS and policy to prevent unnecessary termination of ASHA workers by respective headmen.

She said that the minister had assured to extend 100% coverage of health benefits under MHIS and to come up with guidelines to help prevent unnecessary termination of ASHA workers by headmen.

“…the minister had clearly stated that the department cannot come out with laws but will surely issue certain guidelines to all DCs and headmen in regards to the job security of the ASHAs workers” said Kharjana.