13-Year-Old Girl Dies After Extreme Punishment in Maharashtra School
In a tragic incident that has shocked the nation, a 13-year-old girl from Maharashtra died after being forced to perform 100 sit-ups as punishment for arriving late to school. The victim, Payal Sudhir Kadam, was a Class 8 student at New English School in Peth Vadgaon, Kolhapur. The case has reignited debates on corporal punishment and student safety in India.
What Happened to Payal Kadam?
On June 20, Payal reached school late. Reports indicate that her sports teacher allegedly forced her to complete 100 sit-ups in extreme heat. Witnesses say she collapsed but was made to continue. Afterward, she suffered severe leg pain and was sent home.
Her condition deteriorated by evening, and she was rushed to a hospital but declared dead on arrival. Medical experts suspect excessive physical strain may have caused cardiac arrest or rhabdomyolysis—a fatal muscle breakdown.
Public Outrage and Legal Action
The incident sparked protests, with students, parents, and activists demanding justice. Kolhapur police filed a case under IPC Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) against the teacher. The school initially denied wrongdoing but faces scrutiny amid the ongoing investigation.
Why Corporal Punishment Persists in India
Despite the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 banning physical punishment, many schools still use harsh discipline. Child rights advocates emphasize that such methods cause lasting trauma.
Dr. Shaheen Parveen, a child psychologist, warns:
“Extreme physical punishment can be deadly, as seen here. Schools must adopt non-violent discipline strategies.”
Family’s Anguish and Government Response
Payal’s grieving parents demand accountability. Her father said, “How can sit-ups kill a healthy child? The school must answer.”
Maharashtra’s Education Minister, Deepak Kesarkar, condemned the incident and promised strict action. The state has reinforced a zero-tolerance policy on corporal punishment.
How Can Schools Prevent Such Tragedies?
- Enforce Anti-Corporal Punishment Laws – Regular audits to ensure RTE compliance.
- Train Teachers in Positive Discipline – Replace punishment with constructive methods.
- Anonymous Complaint Systems – Let students report abuse safely.
- Parental Awareness – Monitor school policies and children’s well-being.
Conclusion: A Call for Systemic Change
Payal’s death underscores the urgent need to eradicate brutal discipline in schools. Justice for her requires legal action and nationwide reforms to protect students.
#JusticeForPayal #EndCorporalPunishment #StudentRights #MaharashtraNews
(Report school abuse to child helplines or local authorities. Together, we can make schools safer.)
