Mysuru: Seeking a hike in monthly honorarium and fulfilment of their other demands, ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers under the banner of AIUTUC affiliated  ‘Karnataka Rajya Samyukta ASHA Workers Association’ staged a demonstration near the Deputy Commissioner’s Office on Bannur Road, Siddarthanagar here yesterday.

Maintaining that ASHA workers, who are community health workers, were doing multiple healthcare-related works, the protesters alleged that the Government was exploiting them by not paying them in accordance with their duties. Noting that they were battling issues concerning ASHA funds-based wage payment system for over eight years, they contended that the Government was apathetic to their problems and plight.

Stating that the Government received appreciation from the Centre because of the efforts and service of ASHA workers, the protesters said, however, both the Union and State Governments were hesitant to hike wages. “The Government must announce a monthly honorarium of Rs. 15,000 to all ASHA workers and urban ASHA workers must be given an additional Rs. 2,000 taking note of the additional work and high cost of urban living and other expenses involved,” they urged.  AIUTUC State Vice-President Umadevi and other office-bearers were present.