Odisha Wrestlers Forced To Travel Near Train Toilets In Freezing Cold Without Tickets For Championship

A video showing young wrestlers from Odisha travelling in harsh conditions has sparked widespread outrage. At least 18 school-level wrestlers, who went to Uttar Pradesh to compete in the 69th National School Wrestling Championship, were allegedly forced to travel without confirmed train tickets. Due to this lapse, the team had to sit on the floor in general compartments during the long journey.

The contingent included 10 boys and eight girls. According to reports, the young athletes were made to sit close to train toilets in the severe winter cold. Videos circulating online show the wrestlers huddled on the floor near the latrines, raising serious concerns about their health, safety and dignity. Many questioned how children representing the state

at a national event could be treated in such a manner.

Return journey no better

The difficulties did not end after the tournament. The wrestlers reportedly faced the same conditions on their return journey to Odisha. No confirmed tickets were arranged for either leg of travel, forcing them once again into overcrowded general coaches. Parents and sports lovers said this showed a complete lack of planning by the authorities.

Adding to the concern, the parents or guardians were reportedly not allowed to travel with the team. This decision has drawn sharp criticism, with many saying young athletes should never be left without adult supervision during long journeys, especially under such conditions.

The visuals of 18 young Odisha wrestlers being forced to sit near train toilets in biting cold are a national embarrassment. These athletes were travelling to Uttar Pradesh to represent our state in the national school wrestling championship. This is the true face of the BJP…pic.twitter.com/unrzPn8uds

— Navajyoti Patnaik (@NavjyotiPatnaik) December 23, 2025 " rel="nofollow">http://

The visuals of 18 young Odisha wrestlers being forced to sit near train toilets in biting cold are a national embarrassment. These athletes were travelling to Uttar Pradesh to represent our state in the national school wrestling championship.

This is the true face of the BJP… pic.twitter.com/unrzPn8uds

— Navajyoti Patnaik (@NavjyotiPatnaik) December 23, 2025

Public anger and political reaction

The incident has led to strong reactions across Odisha. Parents, sports enthusiasts and members of the public have criticised the State Department of School and Mass Education, demanding accountability. Despite the growing outrage, the department has not issued any official statement so far.

Congress leader Navajyoti Patnaik used the incident to target the BJP-led state government. In a post on X, he called the visuals a “national embarrassment” and accused the government of making tall claims about promoting sports while failing to provide basic facilities. He said denying young athletes confirmed tickets and safe travel showed deep apathy towards sporting talent.

The episode has once again highlighted concerns over athlete welfare and administrative responsibility in school sports.