Kupwara, July 15 : Hundreds of Anganwari workers/helpers and helpers to supervisors working in ICDS department staged a day-long protest in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district demanding revocation of recent order passed by government suggesting disbursement of their salary through village panchayats.
The protest was organised by Anganwari Workers/Helpers Association Kupwara led by Rafiqa Khanum who castigated government for passing recent order which she termed as “sell-out” of Anganwari workers to “outsiders”.
She appealed governor administration to revoke the order, saying it undermines and wastes the sacrifices made by Anganwari workers and associated employees in taking the mission of ICDS to every nook and corner of the country.
Khanum added that Angwanari workers/helpers and helpers to supervisors are working on wages less the pocket money of ‘crèche-going children”. “This minimum stipend is also not disbursed on time. Sometimes our salary is disbursed after months of delay which adds to our miseries,” she said.
Taslima Subhan, State President Anganwari Workers/Helpers Association demanded revocation of the order and enhancement in salaries. “We will not join our duties until the demands are met,” she said.
The protesting workers later marched towards DC Complex Kupwara where ADC Kupwara, Bashir Ahmad Baba assured that their demands will be forwarded to higher authorities for further action.
