A preliminary post-mortem has found that the 13-year-old Vasai schoolgirl who died last week had anaemia. The condition reduces healthy red blood cells and causes weakness, fatigue and pressure on organs.

Kajal Gaur studied in Class VI at Shri Hanumant Vidya Mandir, also known as Hanumant High School. On 8 November, the school reportedly punished nearly 50 latecomers. They were asked to do 100 sit-ups while carrying their school bags. Kajal was part of this group.

School Claims They Knew Her Health Condition

School authorities said they already knew Kajal had “poor health condition”. They said they had told her parents to seek treatment. They also claimed the teacher, Mamta Yadav, did not realise Kajal was among the punished students. Principal Ramashray Yadav said, “The teacher could not spot her because of her short height.” He added that Mamta had worked at the school since it opened in 2009. He said the school had suspended her and was cooperating with the police and education department.

Family Rejects School’s Version

Kajal’s family has strongly denied the school’s claims. Her father Sikandar, a labourer, said the school never warned them about any health issue. He also said the punishment itself was unacceptable. “If they knew she was weak, why would they make her do something so harsh? And why should any child be made to do this?” he asked. He further alleged that “the school’s CCTV cameras have been disconnected”.

Sikandar said Kajal came home on 8 November complaining of body pain. The next day, she collapsed. Her mother rushed her to Astha Hospital. Doctors there diagnosed seizures and referred her to Lakshmi Hospital. She was later shifted to JJ Hospital, where her condition worsened. She died on Saturday.

Post-Mortem Findings and Police Action

The preliminary cause of death includes pulmonary oedema and an enlarged spleen, a condition often linked with anaemia. Doctors have reserved their final opinion until chemical analysis is completed.

Waliv police have filed an accidental death report. Senior police inspector Dilip Guge said, “If the chemical analysis indicates that the death was linked to physical stress or exertion, we will file an FIR.”

Public Anger and Ongoing Inquiry

Kajal’s death sparked anger among parents and local residents. Many gathered outside the school last week. They accused the school of using corporal punishment regularly. They also alleged that the school was running classes up to Grade X without proper permissions.

The state education department has launched an inquiry. Police have asked the teacher and school management to record their statements. Corporal punishment is illegal under the Right to Education Act.

Leaders of the Shiv Sena (UBT) visited the family on Saturday. They promised support and urged the police to take strict action against the school and the teacher.