The ongoing protest by Kerala's Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) has reached its 50th day, marked by escalating demonstrations and unwavering demands for improved compensation and benefits. In a symbolic act of dissent, ASHA workers and their supporters have announced plans to cut their hair in protest.

The indefinite hunger strike, now in its 12th day, underscores the protesters' determination. They are calling for immediate negotiations with the government to address their grievances, which include unpaid honorariums and incentives. The withholding of last month's honorariums and incentives has intensified the workers' dissatisfaction.

Opposition parties have shown support by announcing wage increases for ASHA workers in several local self-governing bodies under their control. However, Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh dismissed these promises as impractical and misleading, accusing opposition-led local bodies of deceiving the workers with unfeasible commitments.

The state government maintains that ASHA workers are part of a central scheme and should direct their demands to the central authorities. Despite this stance, the state currently provides a monthly honorarium of ₹7,000 to ASHA workers. The workers argue that since they fulfill responsibilities under the state's health department, the state government should take the initiative to increase their compensation.

As the protest continues, the ASHA workers' resolve highlights the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to address their longstanding issues.