Anganwadi workers protest circular

BHUBANESWAR: Hundreds of anganwadi workers and helpers on Tuesday demonstrated at PMG square to protest against government's recent circular asking them to go for agitation programme only with prior permission from the competent authorities. Among other demands, they sought job regularization.
The demonstration was organized by Nikhil Odisha Anganwadi Karmi Sangha and Odisha Anganwadi Workers' and Helpers' Association.
Addressing the anganwadi workers, former MP and president of the sangha Dutikrushna Panda and vice-president Bijoy Jena accused the government of trying to squeeze the democratic rights of anganwadi workers and helpers by issuing such circular. They warned to intensify their agitation if the government fails to withdraw the notification. Later they submitted a memorandum to Governor M C Bhandare in support of their demands.
The demonstration, organized by the association, was addressed by vice-president of All India Federation of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers K Hemalata, state general secretary of CITU Bishnu Mohanty, association state president Radha Raman Sarangi and general secretary Sangita Ray. Later a delegation of the association submitted a memorandum to the government.