NHM Contract Staff Protest Demanding Decision on Demands by Oct 10
National Health Mission contract staff demonstrated for their eight-point demands, threatening an indefinite strike in Lucknow if not resolved by October 10.
फर्रुखाबाद | संदीप तिवारी
NHM Contract Staff Stage Protest, Set October 10 Deadline
Employees of the National Health Mission (NHM) held a strong protest on Thursday at the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) office complex in Fatehgarh, demanding action on their pending eight-point agenda. Under the banner of the National Health Mission Contract Employees Union, the staff warned the government that failure to make a concrete decision on their demands by October 10 would lead to an indefinite strike in Lucknow starting October 12.
The protesting health workers stated they have been providing services on contract in the health department for the past 15 to 18 years. Despite their dedicated service during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, they still lack the benefits and job security afforded to regular employees.
Key Demands of the Staff
The memorandum submitted by the employees outlines several significant demands. These include regularization from contract service, equal pay for equal work, a Rs 10 lakh family floater cashless health insurance policy, and provision for dearness allowance. Additionally, the employees appealed for the implementation of benefits such as effective EPF (Employees' Provident Fund) with employer contributions, House Rent Allowance (HRA), and gratuity.
The creation of vacant posts within the health department was also a crucial part of this protest.
Lack of Resolution Despite Assurances
During the sit-in, presided over by Union District President Raj Aryan Agnihotri and conducted by Secretary Rakhi, speakers highlighted that their issues remain unresolved despite repeated assurances from the government. Consequently, the employees have now decided on a decisive struggle.
The protesters emphasized the urgent need to address long-pending demands spanning several years. A large number of contract employees, including Pradeep Kumar, Renu Mishra, Narendra Chaurasia, Dr. Rupesh Kumar, Dr. Shyam Kishore, Abhishek Bajpai, Sabir Hussain, and Pramod Dixit, were present at the demonstration.