25/12/2025
Eighteen under-17 wrestlers from Odisha were forced to endure humiliating and unsafe train travel just to represent their state at a national championship.
The athletes from Bhadrak district were travelling to and from the 69th National School Wrestling Championship held from 10 to 15 December 2024 in Supaul, Bihar. Despite being official state representatives, they were sent without confirmed railway tickets for both onward and return journeys.
With no reserved seats, the young wrestlers aged 14 to 17 travelled in overcrowded general compartments, squeezed near a train toilet alongside their luggage. A viral video later showed exhausted teenage girls sitting on the steel floor in unhygienic conditions after days of competition.
These children had qualified through state trials and went on to win medals for Odisha. Yet many returned home sick and physically drained due to prolonged travel, filth, and exhaustion. Parents reported fever and health issues following the journey.
The incident triggered widespread outrage and sharp criticism of the Odisha Sports Department and the School Education Department. Officials admitted serious lapses in ticket booking and announced internal inquiries, promising reforms in travel arrangements. However, no compensation has been announced and no clear accountability outcomes have been made public so far.
Parents, coaches, and sports activists have pointed out that this is not an isolated case but part of a recurring failure in planning and logistics, particularly affecting athletes from rural districts. While Odisha invests heavily in sports infrastructure, basic dignity and safety during travel continue to be ignored.
If children who win medals for the state are treated this way, what message are we sending to young talent and their families.
Athletes deserve respect, not excuses after public outrage.
