Two job aspirants, Prabin Kumar Panda and Byomokesh Nayak, lost their lives during a 25km fitness test conducted by the Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC).
Their deaths have ignited a growing demand for mandatory medical screenings before physical assessments for government jobs in Odisha.
The candidates were running to prove their physical fitness for recruitment to the posts of forest guards, foresters, and livestock inspectors when they collapsed. This incident highlights ongoing concerns over the lack of mandatory medical screenings before such physically demanding tests.
Odisha has witnessed several similar incidents in recent years. In 2022, a 28-year-old aspirant for the Odisha Police collapsed during a 5 km run and succumbed to a heart attack. Similar incidents occurred in 2021 and 2019, with candidates suffering fatal medical complications like sudden cardiac arrest and undiagnosed hypertension during physical tests.
Medical professionals and experts are calling for mandatory screenings to prevent further fatalities. Dr. S. R. Das, a city-based cardiologist, stated, “Routine medical screenings can detect hidden health problems that might not be apparent. This can prevent unnecessary risk and ensure that all candidates meet minimum health standards.”
States such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu have implemented mandatory medical screenings for candidates undergoing physical tests for government jobs. This move has significantly reduced health complications during recruitment exams.
Following the deaths of Panda and Nayak, the OSSSC faces increased scrutiny, with calls from various quarters for immediate action. The Odisha government has announced an ex-gratia payment to the families of the deceased aspirants and is considering the implementation of mandatory medical screenings for future recruitment drives.
As the debate continues, the need for a more systematic approach to ensure the safety and well-being of job aspirants remains a critical issue.
