In a powerful display of unity, thousands of women working in the state’s Anganwadi centers gathered in Bhiwani today to launch a fresh offensive against the government’s alleged apathy. The protest, led by the Haryana Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, highlighted the long-standing demand for better service conditions and retirement benefits.
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The Red Saree March: The protesters started their march from the local HUDA Park, passing through major city markets before reaching the District Collector’s office. The visual of thousands of women in red sarees became a symbol of their “state of emergency” regarding financial security.
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The Legal Battle: Protesters pointed to the Supreme Court ruling (Maniben Maganbhai Bhariya case), where the apex court held that Anganwadi workers perform statutory duties and are eligible for gratuity. “The court said we are entitled to this benefit two years ago, yet the Haryana government is still denying us our right,” said a union leader.
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Key Demands:
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Implementation of Gratuity: Immediate payout of gratuity to all retired workers and helpers.
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Status of Employees: Being recognized as regular government employees (Class III and IV) rather than “volunteers.”
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Pension and Minimum Wages: A fixed monthly pension and a minimum wage of ₹26,000.
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Frontline Grievances: Many workers shared stories of serving for over 30 years only to be “discharged” without a single rupee in retirement benefits. They emphasized that their workload has increased significantly with the digitisation of records (Poshan Tracker App) without any increase in their honorarium.
