ASHA workers demand salary hike

Chittoor: Hundreds of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) under the banner of the Andhra Pradesh ASHA Workers Federation, an affiliate of the Indian Federation of Trade Unions (IFTU), staged a protest at the Collectorate here on Monday, demanding hike in salaries.

Speaking on the occasion, AP Asha Workers Federation President R Hari Krishna has said more than 3,500 ASHA workers and helpers are discharging their duties with meagre salaries for several years.

He alleged that Rs 4 crore funds meant for salaries of ASHA workers were swindled by the corrupt employees in the Medical Department. He demanded that the government should hike the salaries of ASHA workers to Rs 18,000 per month and provide all benefits on par with government employees. IFTU General Secretary Rani and others spoke. Later, they submitted a memorandum to District Collector P S Pradyumna for taking necessary action.