Punjab wheelchair cricketer Vikram Singh suffered a cardiac arrest and died while on his way from Ludhiana to Gwalior in a train. The 39-year-old passed away near the Mathura Junction on Wednesday morning.

Journey of Wheelchair Cricketer Vikram Singh to Gwalior

Vikram was travelling to play in the seventh Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Memorial T-10 Championship, set to begin on June 5. His colleagues mentioned that he had complained of restlessness as the train passed through Delhi. His condition worsened, and he was declared dead by officials upon reaching the Mathura Junction.

Despite his deteriorating condition, Vikram’s colleagues sought help from the GRP, but it was reportedly not prioritized by the authorities. The train was delayed by approximately 90 minutes when it reached Mathura, causing further distress.

Vikram’s Contribution to Wheelchair Cricket

Vikram had started playing wheelchair cricket in Ludhiana around 8-9 years ago. He was known for practicing on his own and bearing all expenses through whatever means he could. Last year, he played an important role in helping the Punjab team win the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Memorial T-10 Championship. He was excited to participate in this year's edition, too.

Vikram’s colleagues shared the details of his final moments. They revealed that when the train was crossing Delhi, he complained of a severe headache and was sweating profusely. They alerted the Railways GRP personnel, who assured them that doctors would be available at Mathura station. However, the train waited for over an hour ahead of the station, and they lost Vikram. His family has been informed and is on their way to retrieve his body.

Public Outrage and Criticism of Railways

The incident has sparked outrage, with several rights organizations for specially-abled individuals questioning the Railways for neglecting the issue. People have expressed anger over the lack of timely intervention.

Vikram, a resident of Pohir village near Ahmedgarh in Malerkotla district, Punjab, had also been shortlisted to play for India's wheelchair team in 2020 during a series against Bangladesh. Unfortunately, the series was called off due to the Covid-19 pandemic. His contributions to wheelchair cricket will always be remembered.