ASHA workers allege ‘illegal deductions’, clash with police as protesters breach barricades

A fresh wave of resentment has gripped ASHA workers across the state, with many alleging that long-pending honorarium payments and promised allowance hikes remain unresolved despite earlier assurances. On Friday, tensions escalated during a protest as heated arguments and pushing broke out between the workers and police personnel. The situation turned chaotic for several hours, with protesters climbing over tall barricades and raising slogans while standing firm on their demands.

The workers, often described as the backbone of grassroots healthcare services, claim that the government’s assurances following their earlier agitation have proved to be “nothing more than deception.” They allege that despite ending their work boycott, pending dues have not been cleared. Instead, several workers have complained of administrative harassment at the block level after resuming duties.

The controversy has intensified over what the protesters describe as “illegal deductions” from their honorarium. According to claims emerging from multiple districts, thousands of rupees are allegedly being deducted without prior notice or clear justification. The workers have termed the move “unjust and unethical,” alleging financial strain and mental harassment as they continue to press for immediate redressal.