Chhattisgarh. (07/03) : The Chhag Anganwadi Worker Assistant Union fervently backed Mrs. Hiramani Kashyap’s divisional protest against the unfortunate accidents, exploitation, and neglect faced by Anganwadi workers. The protest aimed to address the irresponsible conduct of officials during government and departmental tasks, demanding compensation for affected workers.
In the absence of Sub-Divisional Officer (R.) Pakhanjur and other officials, including the Chief Minister and Minister of Women and Child Development, a memorandum was presented to Rahul Rajak, Deputy Collector and District Chief Executive Officer of District Panchayat Koyliveda, Bastar Divisional Commissioner. The State President of the Union, Kalpana Chand, Secretary Anju Mallik, among others, expressed deep concern over the unfortunate incident involving Anganwadi worker Mrs. Hiramani Kashyap.
Mrs. Kashyap, who serves as the Chief Minister of Anganwadi Center No. 3 in Sector Muli No. 1, Project Bakavand, District Jagdalpur, was involved in a serious accident while fulfilling her duty to escort a couple for a mass marriage program, despite being pressured by authorities. Despite her critical condition and admission to Mekahara Raipur, the administration has failed to provide any assistance.
The Union raised several issues, including the exploitation and harassment faced by Anganwadi workers due to non-departmental work and unreasonable demands from officials. Tragically, they cited instances of workers who lost their lives due to work-related stress and accidents, yet received no compensation from the state government.
In light of these grievances, the Union demands:
- Full coverage of Mrs. Kashyap’s medical expenses, the best possible treatment, paid leave, and a compensation of Rs. 5 lakh.
- Immediate reinstatement of President Mrs. Rukmani Sajjan and action against those responsible for her dismissal.
- Cessation of non-departmental work for Anganwadi workers, along with measures to prevent coercion and harassment during departmental tasks.
- Compensation of Rs. 5 to 10 lakh for accidents during work, and Rs. 50 lakh compensation and a monthly pension of Rs. 20,000 in case of worker fatalities.
The Union emphasizes that while they prefer peaceful resolution, their demands are justified and morally sound given the risks faced by Anganwadi workers in their line of duty.
