Chandauli: Ajeevika Women Protest Over Low Pay
Women from Ajeevika groups in Chandauli protest against low monthly honorarium, demanding a hike from ₹2,000 to ₹14,000.
A massive wave of discontent swept through Chandauli as numerous women from the Ajeevika group gathered at the Bichhiyan protest site to voice their fury. The demonstrators are fighting against what they describe as an exploitative wage structure, claiming their current compensation is a mere pittance for the grueling labor they perform.
The Struggle for Fair Wages
The core of the grievance lies in the staggering gap between work performed and money earned. According to the protesters, these women dedicate eight to ten hours every single day to their duties, yet they receive a monthly honorarium of only ₹2,000. This meager amount is being challenged, with the women demanding a significant increase to ₹14,000 per month.
The protesters highlighted several key demands to ensure their survival and dignity:
- Increased Honorarium: A hike from the current ₹2,000 to ₹14,000 to match the labor provided.
- Parity with Other Workers: They are seeking respectable remuneration levels similar to those received by ASHA and Anganwadi workers.
- Mobile Expenses: Provision for mobile recharge costs to facilitate work-related communication.
- Timely Payments: A guarantee that their monthly honorarium is released on time without delays.
Allegations of Disrespect and Hardship
Beyond the financial struggle, the women expressed deep emotional and social distress. They alleged that district and block-level officials fail to treat them with the respect they deserve as workers. The lack of dignity in their professional interactions has added fuel to the fire of their protest.
Speaking to the gathered crowd, Ajeevika group member Anju Pandey highlighted the impossibility of their current situation. She stated that sustaining a family on such a low income is an insurmountable challenge and noted that their tireless efforts are not being met with adequate rewards.
A Warning of Escalation
The women were clear in their message: they are not seeking charity, but rather fair payment for their labor. The protest concluded with a stern warning to the government and relevant authorities. If their demands are not addressed positively and promptly, the movement is set to intensify.
The protesters threatened to expand their demonstrations from the local level to Lucknow and even Delhi, warning of a potential strike if the authorities fail to establish a reasonable and livable honorarium.