Tribal Students' Hunger Strike Over Jobs and Hostels Enters 16th Day in Manjari
A hunger strike by tribal students at the Manjari Scheduled Tribes Hostel on the outskirts of Pune entered its 16th day on August 28, as medical personnel warned of the deteriorating health of the fasting youth. The agitation is part of wider protests active across at least 25 parts of Maharashtra since mid-August.
The students are pressing a list of 14 demands, which include the immediate filling of 12,500 government job vacancies reserved for tribals following a 2017 Supreme Court directive. Protesters are also seeking better living conditions, upgraded kitchens, dedicated reading rooms in hostels, and expanded educational infrastructure.
Six students—Nikita Mechikar, Shweta Irnak, Sharad Thokal, Rajaram Padvi, Vijay Bamble, and Rahul Dhanve—have been on a continuous hunger strike. Medical personnel from the nearby Loni Kalbhor Public Health Centre reported that the fasting students have experienced severe drops in blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Nikita Mechikar was evacuated to the primary health centre, while doctor Manoj Thawre noted that 26-year-old Shweta Irnak required urgent hospital care.
The state government has held four rounds of negotiations with the protesting delegation in Manjari. Thus far, authorities have agreed to one demand by suspending the age limit clause for admissions into tribal government hostels, which was initially imposed through an order on August 5.
Protesters gathered at the hostel complex stated they will maintain their demonstration until their remaining demands regarding recruitment and academic amenities are addressed by the state administration.
