Tripura govt to challenge HC verdict on gratuity for AWC workers in SC

Agartala (West Tripura) [India], June 20 : The Tripura government is contemplating challenging the High Court's verdict on gratuity benefits for the Anganwadi workers employed under the ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) project.
Earlier in May this year, the High Court bench headed by Justice S Datta Purakayastha ruled that the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers were eligible to receive the benefits under the Gratuity Act.
They referred to a Supreme Court verdict in connection with a similar petition filed by the Anganwadi workers of Gujarat. The Court also categorically stated that the order would come into effect retrospectively, which indicates that all the Anganwadi workers and helpers, including those who had been retired from services, would be eligible to get the benefits.
Reacting to a question regarding the matter, Social Welfare and Social Education Minister Tinku Roy said on Thursday, "Tripura is not the only state where Anganwadi workers and helpers are not entitled to avail themselves of the benefits of the gratuity scheme. The state government has decided to file a petition challenging the High Court verdict in the Supreme Court."
It should be noted here that more than 10,000 in service and retired Anganwadi workers and helpers are eligible to get benefits as per the High Court orders.