Class 6 girl dies after alleged ‘100 sit-ups’ punishment for being late to school

A heartbreaking case from Maharashtra’s Palghar district has raised serious questions about school discipline and child safety. A Class 6 girl from a private school in Sativali, Vasai, died nearly a week after she was allegedly forced to do 100 sit-ups as punishment for arriving late. The shocking incident has prompted authorities to launch an inquiry into the circumstances leading to her death.

The Punishment That Changed Everything

According to members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), on November 8, the girl and four other students were reprimanded for reaching school late. Their punishment: 100 sit-ups each, allegedly with their school bags still on.

Her mother claimed that the teacher insisted the children perform the sit-ups with their bags strapped to their backs. Soon after, the girl complained of intense back and neck pain and struggled even to stand up. Her condition worsened significantly in the days that followed.

Health Deterioration and Tragic End

Despite treatment, the Class 6 student succumbed to her injuries at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night, nearly a week after the alleged punishment. MNS leader Sachin More stated that the child had pre-existing health issues, making the punishment even more dangerous.

A teacher from the school argued that the exact number of sit-ups remained unclear and claimed there was no confirmation that the punishment directly caused her death.

Inquiry Underway, No FIR Yet

Block Education Officer Pandurang Galange confirmed that an inquiry is in progress to determine the cause of death. However, no police complaint has been filed yet.

A Mother’s Cry for Justice

The grieving mother maintained that the 'inhuman punishment' led to her daughter’s death. She said the teacher defended the action by claiming parents often accuse teachers of not doing enough despite taking fees. For her, the truth is clear, forcing a child to do sit-ups with a heavy bag was cruel and deadly.