A tragic incident has come to light from a hostel run by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Kollam, Kerala, where the bodies of two female athletes were found in a hostel room early Thursday morning (January 15). Initial police inputs suggest suicide, though officials have stressed that the cause of death will be confirmed only after the post-mortem.

The deceased have been identified as Sandra, a resident of Kozhikode, who was studying in Class 12 (Plus Two), and Vaishnavi, a resident of Thiruvananthapuram, a Class 10 student. Both were trainees at the SAI hostel—Sandra in kabaddi and Vaishnavi in athletics.

What happened

According to preliminary information, other hostel residents noticed the two athletes missing when they assembled for their routine morning practice around 5 a.m. After repeated knocks on the door of Sandra’s room went unanswered, students alerted authorities. Police entered the room and found both athletes unresponsive.

Investigators noted that Vaishnavi usually stayed in a different room but had spent the previous night with Sandra. Fellow trainees had reportedly seen them together earlier, with no indication of distress.

Police action and investigation

Officers from Kollam East Police reached the spot, secured the area, and shifted the bodies for post-mortem examination. Police said no suicide note has been found so far. Statements are being recorded from hostel inmates, coaches, and staff, and the families have been informed and will be interviewed as part of the inquiry. The precise cause and time of death will be established after forensic reports are received.

Wider concerns

The incident has sent shockwaves through the sporting community and raised questions about athlete welfare, hostel supervision, and mental health support systems for young trainees. SAI officials are expected to review protocols once the investigation progresses.