Y.S. Sharmila Accuses AP Government of Betraying Anganwadi Workers

Andhra Pradesh Congress President Y.S. Sharmila has accused the ruling alliance government of betraying Anganwadi workers after promising to address their concerns upon coming to power. She criticized the administration for failing to fulfill its commitments and for allegedly suppressing the workers' protests across the state.

Speaking on the ongoing unrest among Anganwadi workers, Y.S. Sharmila stated, “This is the true definition of breaking promises and deception.” She condemned the government's actions, claiming that detaining protesting workers at various locations was an example of authoritarianism. “Silencing their voices and crushing their protests is the height of dictatorial behavior,” she alleged.

Sharmila asserted that the demands of Anganwadi workers were entirely justified and urged the government to initiate immediate talks with them. She outlined their key demands, including:

* A monthly honorarium of ₹26,000.

* Implementation of the promised gratuity payments.

* Upgrading mini Anganwadi centers to main centers.

* Clear guidelines for the promotion of helpers.

* Immediate recruitment for pending vacancies.

* Compensation of ₹20,000 for funeral expenses and a job for the family if an Anganwadi worker dies in service.

Apart from these, Sharmila highlighted 12 additional demands and called on the government to respond positively. She urged the administration to make an official announcement on these issues in the ongoing assembly session.

"If the government fails to act, the Congress party will launch large-scale protests," she warned.