Anganwadi workers arrested, demand withdrawal of GO

Puducherry, July 10 (UNI) Over 400 anganwadi workers were arrested when they attempted to picket the Puducherry Legislative Assembly demanding immediate withdrawal of the Government Order transferring them, enmasse.

The angnwadi workers who were on a dharna in front of the Assembly for the last few days took out a procession through the main thoroughfares of the town. However, they were arrested at Ambur Saalai.

Meanwhile, the administration today made arrangements for the provision of financial assistance to the handicapped persons which was being distributed through the anganwadis by setting up two centres here with the staff of Social Welfare Department.

Welfare Minister M Kandasamy told newspersons that the old age pensions would also be distributed later today in the same manner.

He also said the administration was making efforts to make the anganwadi functional through alternative measures.

Mr Kandasamy once again appealed to the workers to drop their stir and resume duty. He said the transfer was in no way a punitive measure against them and that they were being transferred well within the circle. Those facing any hardship due to transfer to a distant centre could meet him and he was prepared to consider their cause, he added.

UNI