Anganwadi Workers Protest Outside Harbhajan Singh’s Jalandhar Home, Raise Demands Against Centre

October 6, 2026

Jalandhar, Punjab: Anganwadi workers today protested outside the home of Rajya Sabha MP and former cricketer Harbhajan Singh in Jalandhar as part of a “Jawab Demise Rally.” The large number of women raised slogans against the BJP over the central government’s policies and pending demands. Police were deployed at the scene in anticipation of the protest.

This protest is primarily being held against the central government to press their pending demands. The protesting women say that 12 years ago, when the BJP government came to power at the center, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to increase the honorarium and implement a pension scheme for Anganwadi workers. However, even after so many years, no improvement has been made in the honorarium.

Workers allege that they are being paid only 2,700 rupees under the central government’s 60:40 ratio scheme. Despite this low honorarium, they are being made to work extra hours under the drug de-addiction campaign, the “Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana,” and several other government schemes.

Protesters alleged that orders have been issued to cut workers’ pensions, citing incorrect pension payments. Furthermore, police cases are being filed against workers for raising their voices, and they have even been lathi-charged. No supervisor or CDPO has offered assistance during this difficult time.

No benefits to employees serving for 35 years The protesting workers said that no benefits are being given to employees serving for 35 years. Government work is now being handed over to NGOs. Targeting the central government, they said that the BJP, which dreams of coming to power in Punjab, should forget that it will succeed here. A call for a massive demonstration has been given on December 1 and 2 to protest against the neglect of their demands. A warning has been given to intensify the agitation if the demands are not met.