In a shocking incident in Maharashtra, a 13 year-old girl, Anshika Gaud, a Class 6 student at Shree Hanumat Vidya Mandir in Sativali, Vasai, reportedly died nearly a week after allegedly being forced to do100 sit-ups with her school bag as punishment for arriving late to school.
Authorities have launched an inquiry, and the incident has sparked widespread outrage. The school is accused of operating illegally and covering up civic warnings, while her family and activists demand strict action against corporal punishment and unsafe school practices.
Maharashtra School Under Fire
Shree Hanumat Vidya Mandir, the Maharashtra school involved, is alleged to be operating without proper civic permissions. A local activist revealed that the Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) had installed a board at the school’s entrance stating that the building did not have permission to run an educational institution.
However, the school management reportedly covered this board with their own signboard to hide the warning and continue enrolling students. Activists and local leaders have called for immediate action, including the closure of the school and a halt to new admissions.
Class 6 Student Death in Maharashtra
On 8 November, Anshika and four other students were allegedly made to perform100 sit-ups each for arriving late in Maharashtra school. Anshika was allegedly forced to do these sit-ups with her school bag still on her back, leading to severe pain in her neck and back.
Her health reportedly deteriorated rapidly, and she was admitted to a local hospital before being shifted to Sir JJ Hospital in Mumbai, where she passed away on14 November. Anshika’s mother described the punishment as “inhuman” and confronted the teacher, who justified the act citing parental complaints about teaching standards.
Inquiry Underway
Block Education Officer Pandurang Galange confirmed that an inquiry is underway to determine the exact cause of Anshika’s death in a Maharastra school. The police are questioning school authorities, but no formal complaint has been filed yet.
Local leaders and parents have protested, demanding action against the school and teachers involved. Activists have highlighted the broader issue of illegal schools and unsafe disciplinary practices, urging authorities to enforce stricter regulations.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This tragic incident exposes the dangers of corporal punishment and the urgent need for safe, regulated schools. The Logical Indian stands with Anshika’s family and calls for systemic reforms to protect children from physical harm in educational institutions.
