On May 13, 2026, hundreds of ASHA workers from Bengaluru Urban, Rural, and GBA regions protested at Freedom Park, calling for the immediate release of their pending honorarium and incentives. Organized by the Karnataka Rajya Samyukta ASHA Karyakarteyara Sangha, the protest highlighted grievances over delayed payments from the Central government for the last three to four months and State honorarium for two months. The workers also expressed concerns over the deactivation of nine services in the ASHA Nidhi software, which they claim could result in a monthly loss of ₹500 to ₹1,000 per worker. Rama T.C., the State vice-president of the association, emphasized the extensive healthcare responsibilities carried out by ASHA workers, who have faced ongoing payment delays. Urban ASHA leader Mahalakshmi noted that despite years of service in the public health sector, workers have had to repeatedly protest for basic entitlements. The protesters are also demanding the continuation of ASHA facilitators’ services with proper wages, retirement benefits, and the implementation of a ₹1,000 hike announced in the State Budget earlier this year. The association has warned of larger agitations if their demands are not addressed promptly.