Tue Apr 08 15:06:14 UTC 2025: ## Kerala ASHA Workers Urge CPI(M) to Reconsider Stance on Strike

**Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – April 8, 2025** – The Kerala ASHA Health Workers’ Association (KAHWA) has appealed to the newly appointed General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], M.A. Baby, to reconsider the party’s position on their ongoing 58-day strike. In a letter to Mr. Baby, KAHWA emphasized the legitimacy of their demands and the democratic nature of their protests.

The association highlighted the widespread public and media support for their strike, attributing it to the crucial social role of ASHAs despite their inadequate wages of ₹7,000. KAHWA refuted claims that the strike is an anti-government movement, asserting its independence and commitment to raising only basic demands, including a hike in honorarium to ₹21,000 (as promised in the LDF election manifesto) and retirement benefits of ₹5 lakh.

KAHWA urged the government to show empathy and not use financial difficulties or disputes with the central government as justification for neglecting their pleas. They stressed that the strike, far from being disruptive, represents a vital fight for workers’ rights and dignity, particularly for women. The association called on the Left government to support this “constructive movement” and recognize its significance in inspiring other working-class communities.

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