23‑Year‑Old Aspirant Dies During Police Recruitment 1600m Run in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

A 23‑year‑old youth, eager to join the police force, collapsed and died during the 1600‑metre running test of the police recruitment physical trials in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on February 21, 2026, shocking candidates and officials alike

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, February 21, 2026: In a tragic turn of events during the ongoing Maharashtra Police recruitment process in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, a young aspirant lost his life while undergoing the 1600‑metre running test as part of the physical fitness evaluation on Saturday morning. The deceased has been identified as 23‑year‑old Sangram Dhoniram Shinde, a resident of Sangli district, who was participating in the rigorous selection trials for the police force.

According to preliminary information, the police recruitment physical trials were underway at the Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) office grounds when Sangram began his run among dozens of other candidates. Around 8:15 am, during the 1600‑metre endurance run, he suddenly became unwell and collapsed on the track. Despite the immediate response from attending police personnel and on‑site medical teams who rushed him to a nearby hospital, doctors declared him dead on arrival. The exact cause of death, whether due to a cardiac event, heat stress, dehydration, or another factor, will only be confirmed after a full post‑mortem investigation.

The incident cast a pall over the recruitment event, with many candidates and officials expressing shock and sorrow. For Sangram, the dream of wearing a khaki uniform and serving in the police force was a long‑cherished goal that he had pursued with dedication, including months of fitness preparation prior to arriving at the recruitment venue. His sudden death has not only brought profound grief to his family and community back in Sangli but has also raised questions among candidates about the rigours of the physical testing process.

Police authorities confirmed that while the physical test is part of the standard selection criteria for constable and other police positions, procedures include on‑site medical support for all candidates. In this case, they stated that Sangram was attended to immediately and transported for emergency care, but efforts to save his life were unsuccessful. Officials added that a detailed post‑mortem would be conducted to determine the exact medical cause of death and whether any underlying health condition played a role.

The recruitment process, which has attracted thousands of applicants across Maharashtra, involves multiple physical and written stages, designed to ensure that candidates meet fitness and mental standards required for police duties. In recent weeks, physical tests including running, endurance drills, and field evaluations have been held in various districts, drawing aspirants from diverse backgrounds. The sudden passing of a young candidate in Sambhajinagar has prompted a re‑examination of safety measures and stress testing protocols during high‑intensity physical trials.

Local leaders and recruitment officials have expressed condolences to Sangram’s family and assured that all necessary support for post‑mortem formalities and family assistance would be provided. Meanwhile, participating candidates have been advised to monitor their health closely and avail themselves of medical check‑ups prior to intense physical trials. As investigations continue, the recruitment body is expected to review safety arrangements to minimise the risk of similar tragedies in future sessions.

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