Federation Cup 2026 : India witnessed a memorable moment in athletics during the Federation Cup 2026 held at Birsa Munda Stadium in Ranchi. Madhya Pradesh athletes Dev Kumar Meena and Kuldeep Kumar created history in men’s pole vault after both cleared 5.45 meters, setting a new national record.
Their remarkable achievement also secured qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, making it one of the biggest highlights of the tournament.
Viral Video Raises Questions
While the sporting achievement earned applause, another scene from the stadium soon grabbed attention on social media. Just hours after creating the national record, both athletes were seen struggling to carry their pole vault equipment on an e-rickshaw.
In the viral video, Dev Kumar Meena and Kuldeep Kumar can be seen carefully adjusting their long poles and sports gear onto the small vehicle before sitting on it themselves and leaving the venue.
The visuals sparked discussion online, with many users questioning the lack of proper support and transport facilities for athletes representing the country at the highest level.
Carrying Equipment Became a Challenge
Pole vault poles are generally around 16 to 17.5 feet long, making transportation difficult without proper arrangements. Reports suggest the athletes themselves had to arrange the e-rickshaw and convince the driver to transport the oversized equipment.
The incident highlighted the struggles many Indian athletes continue to face despite delivering international-level performances.
Similar Trouble Faced Earlier This Year
This was not the first time the two athletes faced problems while traveling with their equipment. Earlier in the year, Dev Kumar Meena and Kuldeep Kumar reportedly encountered difficulties while returning from the All India Inter-University Championship.
According to reports, railway officials had objected to carrying the poles on the train and allegedly described them as steel pipes. The athletes were reportedly asked to pay a penalty and were even told to get off the train because permission for carrying the equipment was denied.
Sporting Success but Infrastructure Questions Remain
India continues to perform strongly in cricket, especially in ICC tournaments, but scenes like these have once again shifted focus toward the condition of support systems available for athletes in other sports.
Despite setting a national record and qualifying for a major international event, the athletes’ post-event struggle became a reminder that success on the field does not always guarantee proper facilities off it.
