Minister asks protesting healthcare workers to be cautious of ‘middlemen’

Responding to a question about the increase in protests ahead of the elections, Health Minister Ma. Subramanian said that with elections approaching, there is a rise in “middlemen” who exploit the emotions of employees and urged those concerned to remain cautious of such individuals.

On Monday, Mid-Level Healthcare Providers (MLHPs) staged a protest in Chennai, pressing for various demands. He said that 4,848 MLHPs were recruited for “Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam” four years ago through the District Health Societies for an 11-month period, which is specified in the appointment order, after which it is renewed.

“The appointments are made under the National Health Mission (NHM), funded jointly by the Centre (60%) and the State (40%). They are paid ₹18,000 per month, with an annual increase of five per cent,” he said. They are told that this is a temporary post at the time of appointment, he said.

“Some middleman had asked them to come to Chennai with a false promise of permanent jobs. NHM’s Mission Director held talks with the representatives and explained to them. Some of their minor demands will be taken up for the government’s consideration,” he said.