Hundreds of employees under the National Health Mission (NHM) in Assam have taken to the streets demanding equal pay and benefits similar to those received by regular government health workers. The protest, which began earlier this week, has drawn widespread attention, as NHM employees say they have been working under unfair service conditions for years despite playing a crucial role in the state’s healthcare system.
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NHM Workers Demand Parity
The NHM employees, including nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technicians, and data entry operators, staged demonstrations across several districts of Assam, including Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat. They carried placards and shouted slogans demanding equal pay for equal work, better job security, and inclusion in state government employee benefits.
The protesters pointed out that despite performing similar duties as regular employees in government hospitals, they receive significantly lower salaries and fewer benefits. Many said that while they have dedicated their careers to public healthcare, their efforts are not being recognized fairly.
The All Assam NHM Employees Association has been leading the agitation, urging the government to regularize their jobs and address their demands before the situation worsens. The protestors warned that if their issues remain unresolved, they may resort to an indefinite strike, which could disrupt healthcare services across the state.
Voices from the Ground
Speaking to reporters, one nurse said she has worked for more than ten years under the NHM but still earns less than half of what a regular government nurse earns. She added that the disparity has caused financial distress for many workers who struggle to manage rising living costs.
A laboratory technician participating in the protest expressed disappointment, saying that NHM employees have been instrumental in managing rural healthcare, vaccination drives, and emergency services during the pandemic. Yet, their contribution is often overlooked when it comes to compensation and benefits.
Another protester mentioned that many NHM employees are on contractual appointments, which do not provide pension, leave encashment, or job security. They demanded that the government should introduce a permanent structure ensuring fair treatment for all.
Government’s Response and Ongoing Talks
Officials from the state health department acknowledged the concerns of the NHM employees and said discussions are underway to find a balanced solution. Health Minister Keshab Mahanta stated that the government is reviewing the matter and will take steps that align with both the state’s budget and the welfare of the workers.
However, the employees’ association claimed that similar assurances were made in the past but no concrete action was taken. They emphasized that this time, the government must implement a written commitment with a clear timeline to address their issues.
The association has also written to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, seeking his intervention. They said that NHM workers have been part of Assam’s health network for more than a decade and deserve the same dignity and support as regular employees.
Key Demands of the Protest
The NHM employees have presented several key demands to the government. Their primary demand is for equal pay for equal work, ensuring that NHM workers receive the same salary as their counterparts in the health department. They also want job regularization, retirement benefits, and better working conditions.
Another major concern raised during the protests was the delay in salary payments. Many employees claimed they often receive their monthly wages several weeks late, causing financial strain. They demanded that the government streamline payment systems to ensure timely disbursement of salaries.
The protesters also called for health insurance coverage and maternity benefits for women employees. They said that many female NHM workers continue working even during pregnancy or health issues because they lack adequate leave benefits.
Public Health Concerns
Healthcare experts have expressed concern that a prolonged strike by NHM employees could affect rural healthcare delivery in Assam. NHM workers form a large part of the state’s primary healthcare workforce, handling immunization programs, maternal and child health services, and rural medical camps.
If the protest continues, routine services such as immunization, patient registration, and community health programs may face severe disruption. Officials from the Health Department said they are closely monitoring the situation to prevent a crisis.
A senior health official said that while the government acknowledges the NHM employees’ contribution, the challenge lies in balancing state resources with the rising demand for regularization. He added that negotiations are expected to continue until a middle ground is found.
Support from Civil Organizations
Several civil society groups and labor unions have extended their support to the NHM employees’ movement. They have urged the government to resolve the matter quickly and prevent escalation. Many social activists have also pointed out that fair treatment of NHM staff is essential for ensuring a motivated healthcare workforce in rural areas.
Opposition political leaders have criticized the government for ignoring the employees’ long-pending demands. They claimed that the administration’s negligence towards NHM workers exposes the lack of commitment to strengthening the healthcare sector.
Path Ahead
As the protest continues, the NHM Employees Association has announced that they will hold further meetings to decide on future actions. They reiterated that their demand is not only for better wages but also for dignity and equality within the healthcare system.
The government, on the other hand, has appealed for patience, assuring the employees that discussions will continue to reach a mutually acceptable decision.
For now, Assam’s healthcare system stands at a crucial juncture. The resolution of this issue could shape the morale and future of thousands of NHM employees who have been serving tirelessly, especially during challenging times such as the pandemic.
The coming days will reveal whether the government’s response matches the expectations of those who form the backbone of the state’s health services.
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