Video: Uttarakhand cop, 38, collapses during workout at gym, dies

A Special Operations Group (SOG) officer from Uttarakhand's Champawat district died after his health suddenly deteriorated while exercising at a gym on Friday, officials said.

The deceased officer has been identified as Girish Bhatt, 38, a resident of Banbasa and a serving member of the Champawat SOG. According to initial information, Bhatt was working out at a local gym when he suddenly felt unwell and collapsed.

People present at the gym immediately rushed him to a private hospital in nearby Khatima. However, doctors declared him dead upon examination. The exact cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed.

Bhatt is survived by his wife, a homemaker, and two sons. Originally from Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district, he had later settled in Banbasa. His sudden demise has left family members, colleagues and residents of the area in shock.

WAS A COMMITTED OFFICER

Known as one of the most efficient and dedicated officers in the Champawat SOG unit, Bhatt had been associated with several significant police operations over the years. Colleagues described him as a committed officer who played an important role in maintaining law and order and assisting in special operations across the district.

His last rites were performed with full honours at the Sharda Ghat cremation ground in Banbasa. Many people, including police personnel, local residents and public representatives, attended the funeral to pay their final respects.

Champawat Superintendent of Police Rekha Yadav, senior police officials, members of the Banbasa Traders' Association and several social and political organisations expressed grief over the officer's untimely death. Condolence messages poured in from across the district, while a steady stream of mourners continued to visit Bhatt's residence to support the bereaved family.

The incident comes just days after another sudden death linked to a gym workout was reported from Karnataka's Davanagere district. National-level bodybuilder Sushil Kumar, 26, reportedly collapsed and died shortly after returning home from a workout session. Kumar, who had won several state and national titles, was preparing for international bodybuilding competitions.

The two incidents have renewed discussions about sudden medical emergencies occurring during or after intense physical exercise, though officials have not yet linked the cases or determined the exact causes of death.

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