A 17-year-old national-level powerlifter lost her life in a tragic gym accident while training on Wednesday.
Yashtika Acharya, a decorated athlete, was practicing squats with a 270kg weight when the bar slipped from her hands and fell onto her neck. She immediately collapsed, prompting the gym trainer and other members to rush to her aid, administering CPR in an attempt to revive her.
Despite their efforts, Yashtika remained unresponsive. She was quickly transported to a hospital, but she succumbed to her injuries on the way.
According to Naya Shahar police station officer Vikram Tiwari, CCTV footage confirmed that the incident was an accident. Her family has opted not to pursue any legal action or request a post-mortem examination. The authorities have since released her body to the family for final rites.
Yashtika had recently secured gold and silver medals in the 33rd National Bench Press Championship in Goa. Her untimely passing has left her hometown in mourning, with family, friends, and the sports community grieving the loss of a promising young athlete.
