The Indian Community Activists Network (ICAN) extends it unwavering
support to the striking ASHA workers led by the Kerala ASHA Health
Workers Association (KAHWA).

ASHA workers, at the grassroots level, are the main workforce of the public health sector. However, the succeeding governments at the Centre and states have always refused to recognise their immense value to the poor and needy in the rural India. They serve village folk and carry the health messages to the doorsteps of every household.

Despite their great service they are the lowest paid employees who are
euphemistically known as volunteer-workers. Using this title, the
government has abandoned its responsibility to pay them a decent salary. We are dismayed to note that the situation is no better in a state like Kerala ruled by LDF which boasts of speaking for the poor.

Friends, your demand to raise your remuneration up to Rs. 21,000 is just in view of the minimum wage Rs. 18,000 of an unskilled industrial worker approved by the government. ICAN hopes that the LDF government sees merit in all five demands raised by you and act in a reasonable manner by accepting them. We are confident
of your success.

In solidarity
Arvind Murti