Tragic Death of 13-Year-Old Student Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra
In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked the education community, a 13-year-old student from Palghar, Maharashtra, died nearly a week after being forced to perform 100 sit-ups as punishment for arriving late to school. The tragic event has raised serious questions about corporal punishment in educational institutions.
The Fatal Punishment Incident
Anshika Gaud, a class 6 student at Shree Hanumant Vidya Mandir High School located at Sativali in the Vasai area, was among five girls who reached school late on November 18. According to authorities and local political leaders, the school administration responded by forcing the students to perform 100 sit-ups as disciplinary action.
The situation turned grave when it was revealed that Anshika was made to perform the strenuous exercise while carrying her school bag on her back. Members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have alleged that the school proceeded with this harsh punishment despite being aware of the girl's pre-existing health conditions.
Rapid Health Deterioration and Hospitalization
Soon after undergoing the punishment, Anshika began experiencing severe pain in her lower back and neck. Her mother described how the child's health condition deteriorated rapidly following the incident. "After the punishment, she experienced severe pain in her neck and back, and could not get up," the grieving mother told media persons.
The family rushed Anshika to a Mumbai hospital where she battled for her life. Tragically, the young student succumbed to her condition on Friday night, nearly a week after the punishment was administered.
Family Outcry and School's Response
Anshika's mother has condemned what she describes as "inhuman punishment" that led to her daughter's death. When she confronted the teacher immediately after learning about the incident, she was told that students were punished for coming late to prevent parents from accusing teachers of not properly educating their children despite receiving fees.
"I told the teacher that punishing the students does not mean forcing them to perform sit-ups with bags on their back. The teacher gave my daughter inhuman punishment, which led to her death," the anguished mother added.
Meanwhile, the school authorities have shown a mixed response. While Block Education Officer Pandurang Galange confirmed that an inquiry is being conducted into Anshika's death, a teacher from the school expressed uncertainty about the exact circumstances, stating, "It is not known how many sit-ups this child had done. One really does not know if she died due to it or otherwise."
Political Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has triggered strong political reactions in the region. MNS leader from Vasai, Sachin More, has publicly condemned the school's actions. Workers from both MNS and NCP (SP) have staged protests against the incident, demanding immediate action against the school administration.
Despite the public outrage and political pressure, officials confirm that no formal police complaint has been filed yet. The education department's investigation continues to determine the exact cause of death and establish accountability for the tragic incident that has left the community in mourning and raised urgent questions about student safety and disciplinary practices in schools.
