What is Driving Naresh Meena's Hunger Strike in Jhalawar?

Jaipur, Sep 19 (NationPress) The hunger strike of Naresh Meena, an independent candidate who contested the Deoli Uniara by-election, has reached its eighth day as of Friday. He persists in his demand for justice for the families of the children who tragically lost their lives in the Piplodi school incident in Jhalawar district, Rajasthan.

Despite a decline in his health late Thursday night that resulted in police transferring him to SMS Hospital in Jaipur, Meena remains steadfast in his resolve and stated from the ICU, "My hunger strike is ongoing."

"I have only consumed water. My fast remains unbroken. This silent protest will endure until justice is achieved," Meena declared.

Earlier rumors suggested that Meena had concluded his strike after a visit from former cabinet minister and Congress leader Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, who offered him water.

However, Meena swiftly refuted these claims via a statement and a post on his official social media account.

Reiterating his commitment, he stated, "My silent, fast-unto-death protest will only cease when the government fully acknowledges my demands and ensures justice for the families of the children lost in the Jhalawar-Piplodi school tragedy."

He also called upon his supporters to escalate the movement peacefully and in accordance with Gandhian principles.

The hunger strike was initiated following a tragic incident in Piplodi, Jhalawar, where seven children perished due to an accident.

In the aftermath, grieving families sought compensation, job opportunities, and adequate support from the government.

While the government has announced ex-gratia payments, the families have accused officials of insensitivity and negligence, claiming the administration further humiliated them instead of providing genuine assistance.

In response to this, Meena initiated his hunger strike in solidarity with the victims' families and is now on his eighth consecutive day without food.

Khachariyawas, who visited Meena in the hospital, voiced strong support for the protest and criticized the Rajasthan government.

"The government's treatment of the affected families is not just insensitive; it's disgraceful," he remarked.

"Providing goats to the families of deceased children is not compensation - it’s an affront. This cannot be condemned enough."

He also denounced the police's actions in forcibly removing Meena from his hunger strike location, labeling it a violation of democratic rights.

Khachariyawas called for the state government to promptly address the victims' families' demands with dignity and compassion.

It is noteworthy that goats were reportedly given to the families as compensation, which the families claim have resulted in health issues.

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma recently approved financial aid of Rs 13 lakh each for the families of the deceased children.