Alappuzha, Kerala: A 15-year-old athlete died and three of her fellow trainees were in critical condition on Thursday after consuming poisonous fruit in an alleged suicide pact at an Indian sports institute, officials and news reports said.
The girls, rowing trainees at the government-run Sports Authority of India’s Centre for Water Sports in the southern state of Kerala, had left a jointly signed suicide note, SAI chief Injeti Srinivas said.
The families of the teenage girls had alleged that they were “unable to bear physical and mental torture” by their seniors, charges that were denied by institute officials, broadcaster NDTV reported.
The victim said she had complained about the harsh treatment but the authorities had not acted on the complaint, the report said.
Srinivas refused to comment on the allegations saying a probe had been ordered. The priority was to save the girls’ lives, he said, although there was no known antidote to the poison.
“If anything is found wanting on our side or if anybody is found to be at fault, then the strictest of action will be taken,” Srinivas said at a press conference.
He added that authorities had taken a statement from the victim before her death.
The four girls were found unconscious on Wednesday evening in a hostel room. They were taken to hospital by the warden and a helper.
“We are really shocked. The sports authority institutions are really safe for women,” said Anju Bobby George, a Commonwealth champion.
The Sports Ministry swung into action by ordering an inquiry.
“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,” Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said in a statement.
“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.
“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 added.
