A routine training session at a local court in Haryana’s Lakhan Majra turned fatal for a promising young athlete. Hardik, a 16-year-old national-level basketball player from Rohtak, died after a basketball pole collapsed on him during practice, an incident that has sparked outrage and questions over sports safety standards in the state.
CCTV captures the fatal moment
Hardik had recently returned from a national training camp and was practising alone on Monday. The CCTV footage shows him attempting a scoring drill, jumping from the three-point line to touch the basket. His first attempt is smooth.
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But during the second leap, when he grabs the rim, the pole that was reportedly not fixed securely, suddenly uproots and crashes forward, striking his chest. His friends, resting off-camera, rush in, lift the structure and pull him out. By the time they reached him, it was already too late.
Neighbours told Zee News that Hardik had been selected for the national team. His father, Sandeep Rathi, had enrolled both his sons at a nearby sports club for regular training. Police later conducted a post-mortem and handed over the body to the family. A case has been registered.
Second similar accident in days
The tragedy comes close on the heels of another fatal incident in Bahadurgarh. Aman, a 15-year-old Class 10 student, died after a basketball pole fell on him during practice in a stadium. He suffered severe internal injuries and passed away at Rohtak’s PGIMS hospital. His family alleged that doctors failed to provide timely and proper medical attention.
Aman had recently won a medal at his school sports meet, adding to the shock and grief within the community.
Officials promise action
As quoted by Zee News, reacting to the incident, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini said, “Through you, I have come to know about the death of a basketball player. I will inquire and take action accordingly.”
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Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar termed the death “unfortunate” and assured a thorough probe. “A detailed investigation will be conducted. I will write to all District Education Officers and the Education Minister. I will seek information in detail,” he said.
The back-to-back deaths of two young athletes have renewed concerns over the safety and maintenance of sports facilities across Haryana, a state known for producing some of India’s finest sporting talent.
