Class 6 Girl Dies After Extreme Punishment in Maharashtra School
In a shocking incident in Maharashtra’s Chandrapur district, a 12-year-old Class 6 student died after her teacher allegedly forced her to perform 100 sit-ups as punishment for being late. The tragic event has sparked nationwide outrage, raising urgent concerns over corporal punishment in schools.
What Happened?
The victim, Riya (name changed), was a student at a government-run zilla parishad school in Warora. Reports indicate she arrived late due to heavy rain. Instead of showing leniency, her physical education (PE) teacher made her perform 100 sit-ups without breaks.
Eyewitnesses say Riya struggled but was forced to complete the punishment. After finishing, she collapsed, complaining of severe pain. Though initially dismissed as exhaustion, her condition worsened, and she was rushed to a hospital—where she was declared dead on arrival.
Public Outrage and Protests
The news triggered protests outside the school, with parents and activists demanding strict action. Many shared stories of similar harsh punishments, calling it systemic abuse.
“This isn’t discipline—it’s brutality. No child should die for being late,” a grieving parent said.
Legal Action & Investigation
Police filed a case under Section 304 (culpable homicide) of the IPC and the Juvenile Justice Act. The accused teacher was suspended, and a departmental inquiry began.
The post-mortem report is pending, but doctors suspect cardiac or respiratory failure due to extreme exertion. Activists question why no staff intervened and whether the school followed anti-corporal punishment laws.
Corporal Punishment in India: A Widespread Issue
Despite the Right to Education (RTE) Act banning physical punishment, many schools, especially in rural areas, still use harsh discipline. A 2022 NCPCR report found 50%+ of government school students faced corporal punishment.
Experts warn such methods cause long-term trauma. “Teachers need training in positive discipline, not abuse,” says child rights activist Kavita Sharma.
Demands for Reform
Riya’s death has reignited calls for:
1. Mandatory teacher training on child rights.
2. Stronger student grievance systems.
3. Regular school audits to enforce safety laws.
A Family’s Heartbreaking Loss
Riya’s father, a daily wage laborer, pleaded for justice: “We sent her to learn, not to die. The teacher must pay.”
Key Takeaways
This tragedy underscores the urgent need to end abusive discipline in schools. Systemic reforms and stricter enforcement of child safety laws are crucial to prevent future incidents.
NextMinuteNews demands justice for Riya. Should teachers using extreme punishment face criminal charges? Share your views below.
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