Tripura HC seeks government response on Anganwadi workers’ regularization, equal pay demand, and pending benefits, highlighting years of service without permanent status and growing pressure on authorities to address grievances and ensure justice.
A fresh legal development has brought renewed focus on the employment status of Anganwadi workers in Tripura, as the High Court steps in to question the state’s position on their long-pending demands. The move comes amid growing discontent among workers who have served for years without being granted permanent status or associated benefits.
The Tripura High Court has issued a formal notice to the state government, seeking a clear explanation on why Anganwadi workers and helpers have not yet been regularized despite long years of service. The court has directed authorities to respond within a stipulated timeframe, signaling urgency in addressing the issue.
During the hearing, the bench raised critical concerns about the continued denial of regular posts and benefits to workers who have dedicated a significant part of their careers to public service. The court’s observation underscores the broader question of fairness and equity in employment practices within government-supported welfare programs.
Petitioner’s counsel, Purushottam Roy Barman, highlighted the prolonged neglect faced by Anganwadi staff. He stated that despite years of service, these workers remain excluded from the rights and privileges enjoyed by regular government employees. According to him, the petition was filed to secure justice and ensure that their legitimate claims are recognized.
The plea also emphasizes the implementation of the principle of “equal pay for equal work” until regularization is granted. This demand reflects a wider concern over wage disparities, especially when workers perform duties comparable to those in permanent roles but without equivalent compensation.
Legal history further strengthens the workers’ case. Roy Barman pointed out that the High Court had previously ruled in favor of granting gratuity benefits to Anganwadi employees. Although the state government challenged the decision before a division bench, the ruling was upheld, reaffirming the workers’ entitlement. However, despite this judicial backing, the benefits have not been fully realized on the ground.
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In addition to regularization, workers have raised concerns over the discontinuation of financial benefits. They allege that since 2017, dearness allowance (DA) has not been provided, even as other government employees continue to receive it. Earlier financial increments have also been halted, adding to their grievances.
The case has reignited a broader debate over the treatment of Anganwadi workers, who play a crucial role in grassroots welfare delivery. With judicial intervention now in motion, pressure is mounting on the government to address these long-standing issues and provide clarity on the future of thousands of workers across the state.
