A tragic incident unfolded at the Taratua Reserve Police Grounds in Khurda district during a physical fitness test for home guard recruitment.
Imadul Haque, a young aspirant from Keranga, collapsed while participating in the 1600-meter running event.
Eyewitnesses reported that Haque appeared visibly distressed mid-run before falling to the ground. He was immediately transported to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, where doctors declared him dead upon arrival.
Local police have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the death. Authorities await the post-mortem report to ascertain the exact cause.
The incident has sparked concerns over the safety protocols in place during such recruitment drives, especially in high-temperature conditions. Officials have yet to comment on whether medical preparedness was adequate at the site.
