Tribal students protested against poor hostel facilities and lack of basic amenities in ashram schools by marching from Nashik to Mumbai. They also demanded an inquiry into student deaths at these schools. The Mumbai Police detained the students and transported them out of the city limits, ending their protest temporarily.
- Students marched from Nashik to Mumbai starting September 28.
- They demanded better facilities, probe into student deaths, and resignation of the tribal development minister.
- Police detained students after denying permission to protest at Azad Maidan.
- Students stayed at Maharashtra Congress headquarters before being moved out of Mumbai.
- Students pledged to return on October 25 to resume their protest.
Why did the tribal students protest?
The tribal students organized a march to highlight poor hostel facilities and lack of basic amenities in ashram schools. They also demanded a formal inquiry into deaths that have occurred in these schools over the past two years. Additionally, they called for the resignation of the tribal development minister, holding the government accountable for these issues.
What route did the students take during their protest?
The students began their march from Nashik on September 28 and proceeded towards Mumbai. Their goal was to reach Mumbai and hold a protest at Azad Maidan, a public ground in the city. However, they were denied permission to protest there.
How did the police respond to the protest?
The Mumbai Police denied the students permission to hold their protest at Azad Maidan. Early on Monday, the police detained the tribal students and later transported them out of the city limits by bus. Videos circulated on social media show police placing the students into police vans. The police denied making any arrests despite the detentions.
Where did the students stay during their protest in Mumbai?
After being denied permission to protest at Azad Maidan, the tribal students stayed at the Maharashtra Congress headquarters, Tilak Bhavan in Dadar, starting Monday. They remained there until the police moved them out of the city.
What are the students’ future plans regarding the protest?
The protesting tribal students have pledged to return to Mumbai on October 25 to resume their agitation. They continue to seek redressal of their demands, including scholarships and improved hostel facilities in ashram schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are ashram schools?
A: Ashram schools are residential schools primarily for tribal children, providing education along with lodging and boarding facilities.
Q: Why are the students demanding an inquiry into deaths?
A: Over the past two years, 584 students have died in ashram schools in Maharashtra. The students want a formal investigation to understand the causes and prevent future deaths.
Q: Did the police arrest the students?
A: The police detained the students and moved them out of Mumbai but denied making any arrests.
Q: What are the main demands of the tribal students?
A: Their demands include better hostel facilities, basic amenities, scholarships, a probe into student deaths, and the resignation of the tribal development minister.
