Disability day event disrupted by anganwadi workers

On the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a state-level event was organised by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development at Nehru stadium in Faridkot. Cabinet Minister Dr Baljit Kaur served as the chief guest for the event, which aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

Dr Baljit Kaur said the government was committed to promoting the all-round development of the differently-abled through various initiatives.

She added that the state government was going to issue a notification in the coming days, allowing free travel facility to any blind person in all PRTC and Punjab Roadways buses.

She informed the public that other physically impaired persons were given 50 per cent concession on fare in the buses, benefiting more than 7.5 lakh commuters.

The minister stated that in the financial year 2024-25, financial assistance of Rs 278.17 crore was provided to 265,694 disabled persons under the State Pension Yojana, along with scholarships worth Rs 3.37 crore to promote education among disabled children.

However, according to information, the event was disrupted by a protest staged by anganwadi workers who gathered at the venue to demand better wages, improved working conditions, and recognition for their contributions. The workers, who provide crucial services in rural and urban areas, expressed their frustration over unmet demands and ongoing issues related to their employment.

A standoff between the protesting workers and the police was observed, leading to the detention of several anganwadi workers.