What was meant to be a proud journey to represent Odisha at a national sporting event turned into a distressing experience for several school athletes. At least 18 student wrestlers from the state faced severe discomfort during their train journey to Uttar Pradesh due to ticketing issues.
The athletes were travelling to compete in the 69th National School Wrestling Championship when the incident occurred.
Video From Train Goes Viral
A video shared on social media brought the issue to light. It showed young athletes sitting near the toilet area inside a crowded train coach. The cramped space left them with barely any room to move.
The visuals triggered widespread anger online, with many questioning how school-level athletes could be treated this way while representing their state.
Only Four Confirmed Seats for 18 Athletes
Reports indicate that confirmed seats were booked for only four out of the 18 athletes selected for the national competition. The remaining students had no choice but to travel without reserved seating.
They were forced to sit near the toilets for long hours. The area is poorly ventilated and unhygienic. It is usually used as a passageway between train coaches.
Despite the harsh winter conditions, the athletes completed the journey in these conditions.
Cold, Crowded, and Exhausting Journey
The viral clip shows athletes wrapped in layers of clothing to protect themselves from the cold. Some sat on their bags, while others leaned forward in exhaustion.
Their luggage was stacked beside them. The young wrestlers appeared visibly tired. Many kept their heads down during the journey.
The situation highlighted the physical and mental stress faced by the students even before stepping onto the competition mat.
Odisha Education Minister Responds
Odisha Education Minister Nityananda reacted to the incident and assured action.
“I have been informed that our students who travelled to Uttar Pradesh for the national championships faced inconvenience during their train journey due to a ticket issue. We will certainly look into the matter and initiate an inquiry into what happened. Appropriate action will be taken,” he told ANI.
Officials said the government would examine how such an arrangement was allowed.
Sports Bodies Raise Concern
Hari Prasad Pattanayak, general secretary of the Odisha State Karate Association, also expressed concern over the incident.
“It is definitely an unfortunate incident. The system needs to be improved. Getting train tickets in India is very difficult, and we have to think more broadly,” he said.
The incident has reopened debates about planning, coordination, and athlete welfare at the school and grassroots levels.
Questions Over Athlete Welfare
The episode has raised serious questions about how young athletes are treated while travelling for national events. Many believe such experiences affect morale and performance.
Parents, coaches, and sports enthusiasts have called for better coordination between education departments, sports authorities, and railway officials.
They say students representing their state deserve basic dignity, safety, and comfort.