Allegations of Rs 1,000 Salary Cut for Anganwadi Workers in Sagar; Investigation Demanded

Salary Deduction Controversy Erupts in Deori Block

The Women and Child Development Department in Sagar district's Deori block is facing serious accusations of deducting ₹1,000 per worker from the July salary payments. The workers claim that while other blocks in the state are paying the stipulated ₹16,000 as per regulations, Deori has only disbursed ₹15,000.

This discrepancy has raised questions about the department's operational procedures, with a demand for an impartial inquiry. Anganwadi workers in the Deori block are questioning the basis for a ₹15,000 payment when the government-mandated salary is ₹16,000 per month. They seek to understand the reason behind this ₹1,000 shortfall and demand the payment of the remaining sum.

Workers Cite Financial Strain and Seek Clarity

The workers express that such deductions cause financial hardship, particularly given their limited honorarium and the responsibilities they fulfill. They emphasize the need for transparency and proper adherence to salary norms.

Departmental Clarification on Salary Discrepancy

When contacted, the District Program Officer (DPO) Sagar, Bharat Singh Rajput, stated that the salaries for Anganwadi workers and helpers have been revised. He assured that the pending ₹1,000 for July would be added to the August salary payments.

However, the workers maintain their allegation that the deduction was either intentional or a departmental error, which can only be clarified after an investigation.

Complaint to Higher Authorities Planned

Considering the gravity of the situation, the Anganwadi workers have decided to escalate the matter. They plan to inform the Sagar Collector and the Commissioner of Sagar Division.

They will formally request an impartial investigation into the salary payments made in the Deori block. Furthermore, they are seeking action against responsible officials or employees if any irregularities are found at any level. The entire episode casts a shadow on the functioning of the Women and Child Development Department, highlighting the need for a high-level inquiry to ensure transparency.