The tragic death of 16-year-old national-level basketball player Hardik Rathi in Haryana has now turned into a major political flashpoint. Hardik died on November 25 during practice when a rusted basketball pole suddenly collapsed on him at a playground in Lakhan Majra, Rohtak. The incident has raised serious questions about the safety of sports infrastructure in the region.
On November 27, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited Hardik’s home to meet his grieving parents. Mann expressed deep concern and questioned the lack of safety checks at sports grounds. He asked, ‘If children from ordinary families go to practise, who will ensure they return home safely? Who is responsible for this?’ Mann also pointed out that students had earlier written a letter complaining about the poor condition of the basketball court.
Sukhbir Singh Badal accuses Mann of ‘drama’ and political opportunism
However, Mann’s visit triggered a sharp reaction from Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal, who accused the Punjab CM of using the tragedy for political mileage. In a strong statement, Badal said, ‘There is a limit to drama. But Bhagwant Mann knows nothing except drama.’
Badal questioned why Mann shows concern for athletes in other states while, according to him, several sportspersons in Punjab have been killed or injured without getting justice. He listed multiple cases, including those of Sandeep Nangla Ambian, Tej Pal, Gurvinder Singh, Hardeep Singh Deepa and Sukhwinder Singh ‘Noni’ and asked whether their families ever received the same attention.
He further said the law-and-order situation in Punjab has worsened under Mann’s leadership and urged him to ‘fix Punjab first’ before trying to score political points elsewhere. Badal added that if Mann cannot improve safety and justice for athletes in his own state, then he has ‘no right to continue in office.’
The incident has reignited the debate over athlete safety, government accountability and the politicisation of tragic events, while the young player’s family continues to seek justice and answers.
