In a shocking incident during the Gujarat Police recruitment physical test in Rajkot, a 27-year-old aspirant collapsed and died from a heart attack moments after completing the mandatory 5-kilometer run. The tragedy unfolded at the SRP ground in Gondal on Monday morning, sending waves of grief through fellow candidates and their families.
Nitinbhai Chauhan, hailing from Malarwadi village in Kodinar area of Gir Somnath district, had just finished the grueling race in an impressive 23 minutes—well within the qualifying time. As he stepped out of the field, he suddenly clutched his chest, gasping for breath amid severe pain.
Medical teams stationed at the venue rushed to his aid, providing immediate first aid before rushing him to Gondal Civil Hospital. Despite their best efforts, Nitinbhai could not be saved and passed away during treatment.
A senior police officer recounted how Nitinbhai felt discomfort in his chest while returning from the track and collapsed. ‘We tried everything, but he couldn’t be revived,’ the officer said.
Nitinbhai was a well-educated young man with BSc and MSc degrees. Married just a year ago, he had been preparing rigorously for years to join the police force, viewing the recruitment as the pinnacle of his ambitions. His family described the exam as his life’s biggest goal.
This heartbreaking event is not isolated. Earlier this month in Bharuch, 25-year-old Ravirajsinh Jadeja from Kutch suffered a similar fate after completing the 5km run during a recruitment test. In another case from Chhota Udepur, a 27-year-old candidate collapsed during the race and later succumbed.
These repeated tragedies have raised serious questions about the health screening and safety measures in place for such high-stakes physical exams. Authorities must investigate and implement stricter medical protocols to prevent future losses. As Gujarat pushes forward with its police recruitment drive, the dreams of young aspirants like Nitinbhai remind us of the human cost behind these pursuits.