18 Young Odisha Wrestlers Travel in Harsh Conditions Due to Unconfirmed Train Tickets
Video of Odisha Wrestlers Sitting Near Train Toilet Goes Viral; State Govt Orders Probe: The Odisha government has ordered an investigation after a video showing young athletes from the state traveling in unsanitary conditions on a train went viral, triggering widespread public outrage.
Education Minister Nityanand Gond on Tuesday said the matter has come to the government’s attention and assured that a thorough inquiry will be conducted to ascertain the facts. “This matter has come to our attention. We are also receiving information about it. The government will investigate the veracity of all allegations, and necessary action will be taken based on the findings,” the minister said.
The controversy began after at least 18 athletes from Odisha—10 boys and 8 girls—were sent to participate in the 69th National School Wrestling Championships held in Uttar Pradesh. According to allegations, the athletes were forced to sit on the floor near train toilets during their journey due to the absence of confirmed tickets.
Reports suggest that the issue occurred during the return journey, when the team had to travel in general compartments amid freezing weather conditions. A video showing the young wrestlers sitting near the toilets quickly circulated on social media, drawing sharp criticism and raising serious questions about negligence and mismanagement by the concerned authorities, including the School and Public Health Department.
It has also been alleged that the athletes’ parents were not permitted to accompany them on the trip, further intensifying concerns about the safety and well-being of the minors.
Minister Gond stated that an official investigation would verify all claims related to the incident. “After the investigation is complete, appropriate action will be taken,” he added.
The incident has sparked calls for accountability and better arrangements for young sportspersons representing the state at national-level competitions.
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