Thiruvananthapuram: The ASHA workers' protest is set to escalate as they prepare to lay siege to the Kerala Secretariat shortly. With the strike entering 36th day, the government has made extensive arrangements to counter the protest, deploying heavy police presence and sealing off the Secretariat premises. Strict security measures have been enforced at all entry points, while ASHA workers began gathering near the protest site around 9.30 am.

Along with ASHA workers, several other organisations have also extended their support and joined the siege. The indefinite strike has continued without resolution, as the government is yet to initiate talks for a settlement, prompting the protesters to intensify their agitation.

Meanwhile, the state health department has scheduled training sessions on palliative care for ASHA workers in Thrissur, Alappuzha and Kollam districts today, in an alleged attempt to foil the protest. The protesters allege that the training, which lacks urgency, has been deliberately planned to disrupt their participation. The strike committee has demanded its postponement.

Although the protesters are all set to block the Secretariat, the authorities have restricted access to the Chief Minister’s Cantonment Area.