In a heartbreaking development, a cadet undergoing training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, lost his life during a scheduled swimming exercise on Wednesday evening.
The deceased cadet has been identified as S. Balu, 33, from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He had joined the IMA through the Army Cadet College (ACC) entry, a pathway for serving soldiers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force to become commissioned officers.
What Happened?
Police sources confirmed that Balu was discovered unconscious inside the academy’s swimming pool during practice. Though he was quickly pulled out and rushed to a hospital, doctors declared him brought dead.
IMA officials later informed police, and a case was registered at Dehradun Cantonment Police Station based on the academy’s complaint. The cadet’s post-mortem was conducted on Thursday, after which the body was handed over to IMA authorities.
Probe Initiated
IMA has ordered an internal inquiry to examine the circumstances of the incident. Police officials, meanwhile, said that the cause of death will be clear only after the post-mortem report is received.
Previous Incidents at IMA
IMA’s demanding training regimen has, in the past, witnessed tragic accidents:
- In 2017, two Gentleman Cadets collapsed and died during a 10 km endurance run.
- In 2019, a cadet died after slipping into a gorge during night navigation training.
IMA’s Legacy
Founded in 1932, the IMA is regarded as the cradle of leadership for the Indian Army. Each year, hundreds of cadets pass out from its portals as young Lieutenants, ready to serve the nation.
The ACC entry, under which Cadet Balu was training, provides serving soldiers with a unique opportunity to rise through the ranks and secure a commission.
