Tejashwi Yadav Criticizes Bihar Government for Delayed Honorarium Hike for Health Workers

In a recent development, Bihar's political landscape saw tensions rise when Tejashwi Yadav criticized the state government led by Nitish Kumar. At the center of the controversy is a substantial honorarium hike for ASHA and Mamta workers, which was announced by Kumar. Yadav, former Deputy Chief Minister and a key figure in the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), accused the government of procrastinating on this decision for two years.

Yadav took to X, pointing out that during his tenure as Health Minister, he had already initiated the process to increase the incentive amounts for these health workers. However, he claimed that the government under Kumar backtracked on the proposal. Yadav argues that the hike is merely a partial victory, as the workers deserve an honorarium rather than a mere incentive.

The announcement of increased remuneration comes as Bihar approaches assembly elections, expected later this year. Nitish Kumar highlighted the state's long-standing commitment to enhancing rural healthcare services since 2005. Meanwhile, Yadav asserts that the move is a reaction to pressure from opposition, intending to appease voters ahead of the polls.

(With inputs from agencies.)