India, Aug. 24 -- The deaths of three tribal girls after a snakebite at an ashram school in Gadchiroli have prompted the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights to plan a comprehensive safety audit of ashram schools, residential schools and hostels across the state. The action comes amid ongoing student protests regarding poor living conditions and safety.

The commission discussed the proposed audit at a meeting on August 22.

The audit is expected to cover drinking water, food, healthcare, sanitation, CCTV cameras, police verification of staff, grievance redressal and feedback from students. The commission also plans to check emergency medical arrangements and the monitoring of CCTV footage.

The move comes two weeks...