Pole Vaulter Viral Video: A viral video showing India’s top pole vaulter and national awardee Dev Meena being asked to deboard a train has triggered widespread outrage. The incident has raised serious questions about institutional support and respect for Indian athletes.
Dev Meena, the national record holder in men’s pole vault, was reportedly travelling with his professional equipment when the situation unfolded.
What Happened at Panvel Station
According to reports, the Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) asked Dev Meena to deboard the train at Panvel station, citing issues related to carrying sports equipment onboard. Despite explaining his status as a national athlete and the need to travel with specialised gear, the issue remained unresolved.
The video shows Meena visibly upset, prompting viewers to question whether authorities are equipped to handle professional athletes and their logistical needs.
Strong Public and Athlete Reactions
The clip quickly went viral, drawing sharp reactions from fellow athletes, sports officials, and social media users. Many questioned how a national record holder, who has represented India on global platforms, could face such treatment.
Several users asked, “Is this how we treat our champions?” while others demanded clearer guidelines for athletes travelling with sports equipment.
Larger Questions on Sports Infrastructure
The incident has once again highlighted the lack of coordination between sports authorities and public transport systems. Experts say athletes frequently face challenges while travelling for training or competitions, especially when carrying essential gear.
Calls are growing for better policies and sensitivity training to ensure athletes are treated with dignity.
