Right to dignity is an integral part of Article 21, which ensures that life is lived with self-respect, economic security and humane working conditions, and not merely survival.
Why in News?
- ASHA and Anganwadi workers have staged protests in several States.
- They are demanding fair wages, job security and social security, citing violation of their right to dignity.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 21 – Right to life with dignity
- Article 39(a) – Right to livelihood
- Article 41 – Right to work and social security
- Article 42 – Humane conditions of work
About ASHA & Anganwadi Workers
ASHA workers function under the National Health Mission, while Anganwadi workers are part of ICDS.
- Both are classified as scheme workers
- They are not recognised as regular government employees
Key Issues
- Paid honorarium instead of salary
- Excluded from labour laws and service benefits
- No assured minimum wage, pension or gratuity
- Centre froze contribution (2018), leading to inter-State disparities
Significance
- Violation of Article 21
- Weakening of welfare-state obligations
- Persistence of gendered informal labour (majority women)
- Challenges in cooperative federalism
Way Forward
- Legal recognition under the Code on Social Security
- Uniform remuneration framework across States
- Centre–State cost-sharing mechanism
- Pension and health insurance coverage
Conclusion
Recognising ASHA and Anganwadi workers as rights-bearing workers rather than volunteers is essential to uphold constitutional morality and strengthen India’s welfare-state framework.