Wed Feb 19 13:29:16 UTC 2025: ## Junior National Games Gold Medalist Dies After Weightlifting Accident
**Bikaner, Rajasthan –** A 17-year-old gold medalist powerlifter, Yashtika Acharya, tragically died in Bikaner, Rajasthan, after a 270kg weight bar fell on her neck during a training session on Tuesday. Police confirmed the incident and stated that Acharya was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The accident occurred while her trainer was assisting her with the lift; the trainer also sustained minor injuries.
According to Naya Shahar SHO Vikram Tiwari, Acharya’s family has not filed a police report. A post-mortem was conducted, and her body was released to the family on Wednesday. While the exact circumstances are under investigation, the incident highlights the inherent risks within powerlifting. The sport, which involves maximal weightlifting in squats, bench presses, and deadlifts, is not part of the Olympic Games.
Acharya’s death has sent shockwaves through the sporting community. While fatal accidents in sports are rare, this tragedy follows the pattern of other similar events, notably the death of an Australian cricketer in 2014 who was struck by a ball during a match. A video of the incident is circulating online, but viewers are cautioned due to its graphic nature.
First Piper 