Anganwadi workers condemn arrest of union members, stage protest in Ongole

Anganwadi workers formed a human chain at the Ongole Collectorate on Tuesday (March 3, 2026) to protest and condemn the arrest of members of the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union ahead of the ‘Chalo Vijayawada’ programme. The protest was organised under the leadership of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU).

The workers said that the police arrested the union members late on Monday (March 2) following their protest demanding that the government fulfil its election promise of wage hike and the strengthening of pre-schools.

They recalled that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and many legislators had taken part in the 42-day protest organised by them during the previous regime to express solidarity.

“Ahead of the elections, they promised to render justice, but after coming to power the NDA leaders proved that they are no different from their predecessors,” said project secretary K. Hemima.

CITU district leader Ch. Majumdar criticised the government for frequently pointing to ‘empty coffers’ when accosted by employees and workers to fulfil their legitimate demands.