In a shocking case that has horrified parents and educators, a 13-year-old Class 6 girl from Palghar district, Maharashtra, died nearly a week after being forced to do 100 sit-ups as punishment for arriving late to school. The incident, has led to the arrest of the teacher involved and a full police probe into what many call “inhuman” treatment.
Kajal Gaud, a student at Shree Hanumat Vidya Mandir High School in Sativali, Vasai, was among five children made to perform the grueling exercise by her class teacher, Mamta Yadav. Reports say Kajal had to keep her heavy school bag on her back during the punishment, worsening the strain. She had pre-existing health issues, including weakness, but the teacher went ahead anyway.
Kajal’s mother, speaking through tears, said: “The teacher gave my daughter inhuman punishment, which led to her death.” Right after the sit-ups, Kajal felt sharp pain in her neck and back and could barely stand. Her condition worsened over days, leading to hospital stays in a local clinic and then Mumbai’s Sir JJ Hospital, where she passed away on November 14, Children’s Day.
Kajal’s father, Sikandar Bhagirath Gaud, filed a police complaint on November 16, accusing the teacher of negligence. Waliv Police arrested Yadav on November 19 and booked her under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for culpable homicide not amounting to murder. An accidental death report was also registered, and Block Education Officer Pandurang Galange ordered a detailed inquiry.
This tragedy highlights the dangers of physical discipline in schools, banned under India’s Right to Education Act since 2009. As the probe continues, Kajal’s family seeks justice, and communities call for better oversight to protect young lives.
