12-Year-Old Vasai Student Dies After 100-Squat Punishment; Teacher and School Come Under Fierce Fire and Public Pressure
12-Year-Old Vasai Student Dies After 100-Squat Punishment; Teacher and School Come Under Fierce Fire and Public Pressure
On a day meant to celebrate children, a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Vasai when a 12-year-old student, Kajal Gaud, allegedly lost her life after being forced to perform 100 squats for arriving ten minutes late to school. The incident occurred at Shri Hanumant Vidya High School in Sativli, Vasai East.
Kajal, a sixth-standard student, was reportedly made to stand outside with a few classmates and instructed to do squats as punishment. While others stopped after a few repetitions, Kajal—frightened and intimidated—completed all 100. Her health began to deteriorate the following day, leading to her admission to Aastha Hospital, then Vijay Lakshmi Hospital, and eventually JJ Hospital. Despite all efforts, she tragically passed away on Children’s Day.
The incident has sparked serious concerns about the school’s conduct. Reports suggest that Shri Hanumant Vidya High School is recognised only up to the eighth standard yet continues teaching students up to the tenth, raising suspicions that it may be operating without proper authorisation. The growing presence of such unapproved schools in the Vasai-Virar region has become a matter of public worry.
Police have initiated an inquiry, and the process of registering an FIR is underway. Education authorities have condemned the punishment that allegedly led to Kajal’s death and have promised a thorough investigation. Officials also confirmed that action will be taken regarding the school’s violation of recognition norms, with steps being prepared to file a case against the institution.
