10-Year-Old Girl Fights for Life After Teacher’s Slap Causes Severe Infection
A 10-year-old girl, a student of Standard V, is battling for her life in the ICU of a private hospital in Chunabhatti, Mumbai, following a tragic incident involving her coaching class teacher. The child suffered a severe injury after being slapped by the teacher, which was aggravated due to an earring she was wearing. The resulting wound allegedly developed into a tetanus infection, leaving the girl unconscious and in critical condition since October 13. Doctors are working tirelessly to save her as her family anxiously waits for any sign of recovery.
Incident Details
The incident occurred at a private coaching center in Oswal Nagari, Nalasopara East, where the girl was taking tuition classes. According to reports, during one of the sessions, the female teacher slapped the girl on her right cheek, allegedly for being mischievous. Unfortunately, the slap also struck the girl’s ear. The earring she was wearing pierced the skin behind her ear, causing an open wound.
At first, the girl’s father, Ambaram Patel, sought medical help from a local doctor, hoping the injury would heal. However, the wound worsened over time, and the infection spread. On October 13, the girl’s condition deteriorated drastically—her jaw locked, and she lost the ability to speak. In a desperate attempt to save her, Patel took her to multiple government hospitals for treatment, but no beds were available. Ultimately, she was admitted to K J Somaiya Hospital, where she remains unconscious in the ICU, with doctors closely monitoring her progress.
Family’s Response and Teacher’s Apology
The victim’s father holds the teacher directly responsible for his daughter’s condition and has formally complained to the Tulinj police station. “When I confronted the teacher, she admitted to slapping my daughter because she was being naughty. But when I told her about my daughter’s serious condition, she began apologizing. Regardless of her apology, she is responsible for what happened,” said Patel.
Patel has expressed frustration and heartbreak over the incident, questioning the teacher’s harsh actions. He also criticized the lack of immediate medical attention, which he believes worsened his daughter’s condition. The incident has not only shaken the family but also raised concerns about disciplinary practices at private coaching centers.
Legal Action and Investigation
Following the complaint, the police registered an FIR against the teacher under relevant sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), India’s new criminal code. PSI Vinod Waingankar, the investigating officer from Tulinj police station, confirmed that the teacher has been booked. However, since the case falls under bailable offences, no arrest has been made so far. “We have issued a notice to the teacher, and further investigation is underway,” said Waingankar.
Current Condition and Ongoing Treatment
Doctors at K J Somaiya Hospital report that the child’s infection is severe, and recovery will likely take time. They are exploring every possible avenue to treat her, but the prognosis remains uncertain. The girl has shown no signs of regaining consciousness, and her condition continues to be critical.
The case highlights the importance of responsible disciplinary measures and raises questions about medical response times in emergencies. As the investigation unfolds, the family awaits justice while holding onto hope for their daughter’s recovery.