Media reports citing a purported statement from the Union government emerged on Tuesday, criticising the Kerala government over the ongoing protest by ASHA workers. 

The statement said that the Narendra Modi-led NDA government had consistently worked for the welfare of ASHA and Anganwadi workers, acknowledging their crucial role in health and nutrition campaigns. The Centre highlighted that Prime Minister Modi had repeatedly appreciated their contributions.

It further noted that the BJP-NDA-ruled state governments had periodically increased salaries for ASHA and Anganwadi workers. The 2024-25 Union Budget had allocated ₹21,200 crore for the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme, with the estimated allocation for 2025-26 set at ₹21,960 crore. In 2018, the Modi government had also raised the honorarium for these workers.

Kerala received full central funds, claims Union government
The statement asserted that the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had provided an additional ₹120 crore to Kerala as the fifth instalment. Prior to this, Kerala had received ₹1,913 crore in four separate instalments, covering its full entitlement.

‘Administrative failure’ in Kerala blamed for crisis
The Centre accused the Kerala government of failing to pay the salaries and dues of ASHA, Anganwadi, and health workers due to administrative inefficiency. It alleged that instead of taking responsibility, the state government was blaming the Centre to cover up its shortcomings.

Additionally, the statement suggested that opposition-ruled state governments were deliberately obstructing welfare initiatives and attempting to tarnish the Modi government’s image.