CPI (M) State Secretary and MLA Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed serious concern over the delay in release of honorarium of Anganwari workers and helpers since last three months, stating that it indicates a non-serious approach of the government towards their grievances.In a statement issued the CPI (M) leader said the delay in release of honorarium has caused a massive resentment among these workers and helpers, thereby forcing them to come on streets. Referring to recent use of force against Anganwari workers and helpers during a peaceful protest in Anantnag, he said that it is unfortunate that instead of persuasion, the government resorts to the use of force like that of an authoritarian regime.
Tarigami said that the allocation of inadequate financial resources has spoiled the cause of Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) which is bound to hamper the implementation of child welfare schemes and over all functioning of the social welfare department in the state. Due to stagnation the promotion prospects of supervisors, workers and helpers have been diminished, he said and stressed that it was necessary to bring them under the ambit of minimum wages act and uniform service rules.Urging the government to concede to other legitimate demands of Anganwari workers and helpers which include gratuity, the formulation of a pension scheme, immediate enhancement of their remuneration, release of training grants, T.A, D.A and withdrawal of attempts to privatize ICDS, the CPI (M) leader stressed that immediate steps should be taken in this direction in the interest of this section of society.