Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 22: Anganwadi centers across Karnataka will remain closed on January 28 as part of an indefinite strike organized by the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union of Dakshina Kannada district. The protest, dubbed "Bengaluru Chalo," will be held at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, demanding the implementation of minimum wages for Anganwadi workers and helpers, said district president Tara Ballal.

Speaking at a press conference in Mangaluru, Tara Ballal emphasized that despite the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme completing 50 years, Anganwadi workers and helpers are yet to receive a fair minimum wage. She urged the government to implement a minimum wage of Rs 25,000 for workers and Rs 12,000 for helpers. She also called for workers to be classified as 'C grade' and helpers as 'D grade' government employees, following the Gujarat High Court’s directive, and for this to be enforced in Karnataka.

Ballal alleged that both the central and state governments have failed to recognize the contributions of Anganwadi workers and helpers. "We are burdened with tasks from various departments, yet there is no provision for minimum wages—only an honorarium is being provided. This time, we are determined to press our demands through the Bengaluru Chalo protest," she stated. Around 2,500 workers from the district are expected to participate in the protest.

District secretary Ashalatha M V, district vice president Rajeevi, state treasurer Vishalakshi, state representative Chandravathi, Bantwal president Vijayavani, and Mangaluru rural president Shakeela, among others, were present at the press conference.