Suspected Suicide Pact : Union Sports Minister Condoles Death Of Kerala Female Athlete , Orders Inquiry

07 May, New Delhi

Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Thursday ordered an inquiry into the shocking incident at a government sports academy in Kerala where a female athlete was found dead and three others are battling for their lives in hospital in a suspected suicide pact.

”I am deeply aggrieved by the incident that has happened in Kerala. The young girl who has died was a very promising sportsperson. It is a big loss to the country in general and Sports Authority of India and sports fraternity in particular.

” I convey my condolences to the bereaved family. We will give all possible help to the bereaved family,” Sonowal said.

“Three girls are still undergoing treatment. I pray for their speedy recovery. To provide them the best possible treatment is our top priority. Local police is investigating the matter. I have also directed the Director General of SAI to rush to the spot and give me a factual report. I have specifically directed him to ensure that the best possible treatment is made available to the three girls who are undergoing treatment,” he added.

Sonowal also warned that strict action would be taken if anyone from SAI is found responsible for the tragic incident.
“While law will take its own course, at this stage I would only like to say that if anyone from Sports Authority of India is found guilty in connection with this tragic incident, strictest possible action will be taken against him or her,” he said.

Fifteen-year-old Aparna Ramachandran died and three others are fighting for their lives in hospital, according to police sources. All the four girls were found unconscious last night in their room at the hostel of the Water Sports Centre, run by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at Alappuzha, around 130 km from the Kerala capital.