Maharashtra Gen Z Adivasis ask for more
In Manjari village, on the outskirts of Pune, tribal students have been protesting for over two weeks with a hunger strike against the Maharashtra government, which they say has not heard them for years. They hope this time their need for better quality education and hostel infrastructure will be seen, and the Supreme Court-mandated employment assured nine years ago will be given. Vinaya…
In Maharashtra's Manjari Scheduled Tribes' Hostel, a group of 70-80 students, both men and women, are protesting for their rights. They have been on a hunger strike since August 12, demanding the filling of 12,500 government job positions for tribals, better living conditions, educational infrastructure, and lifting the age limit for hostel admission.
The students, mostly in their 20s, have been sleeping on sparse mattresses and blankets, with medical staff keeping an eye on their vital signs. They have been receiving support from political parties and social organizations, with one prominent figure, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, visiting the site and writing to the Chief Minister for their cause.
The immediate trigger for the protest was a government order that limited the stay duration in tribal hostels to 26 years. Medical staff have been monitoring the students' health, with some requiring immediate medical attention due to low blood pressure and sugar levels. Despite the challenges and lack of basic amenities, the students remain determined to raise their voices and force the government to address their demands.
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