17 tribal hostel girls on hunger strike admitted in hospital

More than 17 tribal girls were rushed to hospital after they collapsed while on hunger strike demanding basic facilities like toilets and library in their (government) hostel in BIDCO in Palghar West. The girl have also alleged that they are being teased and harassed by men while they walk to the hostel.

Around 200 students from the tribal belt of Palghar have been taking part in the agitation since Friday. Tribal students from across Maharashtra had taken part in the protest, but withdrew after additional tribal commissioner in Nashik assured them they would be provided all facilities.

"We have several times complained to authorities, but they abuse us. And locals tease us. And if we complain, they punish us, said a protestor. "We do not get clean drinking water and there are no toilets for girls," said another protestor.

The hunger strike is taking its toll on the protesting boys and girls with many of them falling ill due to the cold. Palghar civil hospital authorities revealed that students were suffering from dehydration and acidity and were under stress.