On the streets of Udupi, a determined group of scheme employees gathered in front of the District Collector’s office, staging a one-day strike as part of the state-wide Karala Dinacha Rane. The protest, held today, aimed to push for the fulfillment of various demands, with the employees seeking better working conditions and benefits. S. Varalakshmi, Honorary President of the State Association and CITU State General Secretary, led the charge, alleging that the government is attempting to weaken the Akshar Dasoha scheme by handing it over to private parties. The scheme, which has been in operation for 25 years, was designed to prevent absenteeism in government schools and boost children’s perceptive powers. The protesters are calling for a salary increase of Rs. 7,000, as promised by the state government during the election, as well as the implementation of health insurance and Ediguntu for retired employees. They also demand that Anganwadi workers be freed from non-essential tasks and that all Anganwadi Centers be converted into Anganwadi-cum-Child Care Centers. The protest was attended by various leaders, including State President of Anganwadi Employees Union S. Varalakshi Matanadi Daru, and representatives from the Karnataka State Akshardasoh Employees Union Udupi District Committee. The employees are seeking job security and better working conditions, and their demands were submitted to the District Collector.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi