Congress seeks probe into deaths of tribal children in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra

Congress seeks investigation into deaths of tribal children in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, according to party officials and opposition leader. Rahul Gandhi wrote to the Maharashtra Chief Minister, alleging that hostel rules were damaging the dignity and access to education of Adivasi students. Students in Pune reported that hostel regulations "strip them of their dignity and shut off their path to education", particularly affecting women who face mandatory pregnancy tests upon return after absence.

Gandhi highlighted a 30-year age limit barring hostel accommodation, which excludes many students still studying or preparing for exams. He also accused hostels of being unsafe and lacking basic facilities, resulting in injuries and deaths, including from snake bites. The Adivasi Congress chief, Vikrant Bhuria, called for a safety audit of hostels, citing malnutrition and snakebite deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

In Balaghat district, 22 Baiga tribal children reportedly died of malnutrition, with a nutritional meal absent for six months. In Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, over 70 girls endured a floor-sharing arrangement in a hostel room, with six hospitalised after a snakebite incident, three of whom died. Gandhi urged immediate resolution of student concerns and demanded action against responsible officials.