Andhra: Community health officials stage unique protest

Ongole: The Community Health Officers working in Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have entered the 25th day of their indefinite strike at the Collectorate here on Friday, marking their protest with an innovative approach that combines traditional demonstrations with yoga sessions.

The Community Health Officers from Prakasam district organised a massive rally and conducted a unique human chain formation using yoga postures at the Church Centre. In a symbolic gesture supporting the state government’s prestigious ‘Yoga Andhra’ programme, the protesters performed yoga asanas while demanding resolution of their concerns.

The striking health workers are demanding that the government and officials address several key issues. They are calling for the cancellation of the 8 PM Field Reporting System (FRS) and requesting enhanced security measures for women Community Health Officers. The protesters emphasised that those who have served for six years should be regularised in their positions. The health officers are also seeking job security through the restoration of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) benefits. Additionally, they are demanding salary hikes to cope with rising prices of essential commodities and the current cost of living.