Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) leader Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss has called for urgent talks between the Tamil Nadu government and protesting noon-meal and anganwadi workers. The workers are demanding better retirement benefits and improved wages. Anbumani highlighted that the workers, including cooks and assistants, have been protesting for nearly five days seeking enhanced service conditions and higher payments.
The PMK leader criticized the government for its handling of the protests, accusing authorities of attempting to detain the demonstrators instead of engaging in dialogue. He emphasized the crucial role these workers play in Tamil Nadu’s noon-meal scheme, which benefits numerous schoolchildren daily. Anbumani stressed that many of these workers have been serving part-time with low pay and inadequate social security, advocating for their regularization as permanent employees with fair salaries.
Anbumani noted that the current pay structure does not align with the responsibilities shouldered by the workers. Despite previous announcements by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin regarding welfare measures for retired noon-meal workers, including pension increases, the workers are now demanding a further raise in monthly pension. The ongoing deadlock between the government and the workers has disrupted nearly 43,000 noon-meal centers across the state, impacting students who rely on the program for daily nutrition.
The PMK leader described the situation as “avoidable” and urged the State government to promptly engage in talks with the workers’ representatives to address their concerns through constructive dialogue. He emphasized that ensuring fair wages and retirement benefits not only supports the workers but also strengthens the state’s welfare scheme.
