PNS | DEHRADUN
In response to the ongoing failure to address their long-standing demands, Anganwadi workers protested across the State on Thursday by wearing black bands. They stated that they will continue these protests until their demands are met.
Stating this, the president of the Anganwadi Workers Association Rekha Negi said that the government has been continuously ignoring Anganwadi workers, putting pressure on them due to the mobile and nutrition tracker requirements, despite the fact that many do not have phones or sufficient funds for recharging. In this situation, where are the Anganwadi workers supposed to turn? She emphasised that no minister, security personnel, or department official is willing to listen
Negi further highlighted that Anganwadi workers are facing exploitation in the fields of women empowerment and child development (WECD). She claimed that the government and the department are taking advantage of them, viewing them as weak. They are fed up with repeatedly submitting memorandums regarding their demands to the government and relevant departments. Given this situation, they felt compelled to protest by sitting in their centres, as many Anganwadi workers are widows or divorced women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, making it extremely difficult for them to support themselves.
To make their voices heard without the fear of losing their honorarium, they have decided to wear black bands during the protest at the centres only.
