Anganwari workers attempt self-immolation in Srinagar, arrested

Srinagar, Sept 20: Jammu and Kashmir Police today arrested scores of Anganwari workers after at least two of them attempted self-immolation during a protest, demanding increase in their wages, in this summer capital. However, strongly condemning the use of force on Agitating Anganwari Workers and Helpers, Congress today described the detention of workers as very unfortunate and sought clarity from the government as to why the grievances of these poor people are not being addressed so far. Official sources said two women, who were among the Anganwari workers protesting at Press Enclave here, poured kerosene oil on themselves and tried to set ablaze. However, they said quick response by other protesting workers saved the lives of both the women. The police later took scores of the protesting Anganwari workers into preventive custody. Yesterday also, a woman attempted self-immolation during a protest at Press Enclave. Over a dozen Anganwari workers have been holding protests at Press Enclave here since Monday demanding an increase in their wages. “The salary for Anganwari workers should be increased to Rs 10,000 and for helpers to Rs 8,000. Till the time our demands are met, we will continue our strike,” a protesting Anganwari worker said. She threatened that the protests will be intensify if their demand was not fulfilled. “People have realised the real meaning of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ movement launched by the Prime Minister. It has been transformed to brutalise and detain our daughters. The government must come clean on this issue,” a Congress spokesperson alleged. He said the Congress demands redressal of grievances of the workers and asked the government to explain the reason behind the failures to mitigate the sufferings of these poor people. UNI