Teen powerlifter dies after 270-kg rod falls on her neck during training in Bikaner

Yashtika had recently won gold and silver medals in the 33rd National Bench Press Championship. (Courtesy: X)

In a tragic incident that occurred in Rajasthan's Bikaner district, a minor female powerlifter died during a training session when a barbell fell on her neck.

Yashtika Acharya, a gold medallist at the Junior National Games, was practicing at the gym on February 18 when the 270-kg barbell fell on her neck. Despite being immediately rushed to the hospital, she was declared dead upon arrival.

The accident occurred when the 17-year-old's trainer was guiding her through the weight-lifting session. Her trainer also suffered minor injuries.

Vikram Tiwari, Naya Shahar Police Station Officer, confirmed that the barbell's fall caused the fatal neck injury, the Times of India reported. He added that a video of the incident had been circulating on social media.

Following the post-mortem examination, the teen powerlifter's body was handed over to the family for final rites on Wednesday.

Yashtika had recently won gold and silver medals in two categories in the 33rd National Bench Press Championship, which was held in Goa.