Student dies after allegedly being forced to do 100 sit-ups with schoolbag

SHAH ALAM – A 13-year-old student from Vasai, Maharashtra, died a week after she was allegedly forced to do 100 sit-ups with her schoolbag on her back for arriving 10 minutes late.

The victim, Kajal Gaud, a Year Six student, reportedly began experiencing severe back pain shortly after the punishment was carried out on Nov 8.

Several other latecomers were also subjected to the same disciplinary action.

Her family has since blamed the teacher and the school for her death, although Waliv police have classified the case as an accidental death for now.

Kajal’s mother said her daughter’s condition began to worsen after she returned home that day.

She was first taken to a nearby hospital in Vasai, then transferred to another facility before being moved to another as her health deteriorated further.

The teenager died around 11pm on Friday.

Although an accidental death report has been filed, police said they are waiting for the post-mortem results before deciding on further action, including recording statements.

A local Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) representative, Sachin More, claimed the girl had a history of asthma or breathing difficulties, suggesting she may not have been able to handle the punishment.

Following the incident, MNS members went to the school and locked its premises.

Kajal’s mother said her daughter told her she felt unwell immediately after the punishment and later complained of intense pain from her neck down her back, making it difficult for her to move.

School representative Vikas Yadav said the institution was prepared to accept responsibility if the post-mortem confirms that the punishment directly contributed to Kajal’s death.

Meanwhile, Vasai Education Officer Pandurang Galange said that authorities were in the process of collecting all relevant details.