Berhampur, Sep 14: A Home Guard recruitment drive in Odisha took a tragic turn today when an aspirant collapsed during a physical endurance test in Chhatrapur, located in the Ganjam district.

The candidate, identified as Shibram Pradhan from Tulasipalli under Tarasingh police jurisdiction, reportedly fell ill during a sprint. He was initially taken to the Chhatrapur Sub-Divisional Hospital but was later referred to MKCG Medical College and Hospital as his condition deteriorated. Despite medical efforts, he passed away during treatment, said sources.

In the wake of the incident, authorities have suspended the ongoing recruitment process. Police officials stated that a new date for the tests will be announced in due course.

This incident marks the second such fatality during the current recruitment cycle. On May 21, another candidate, Deepak from Narayanpur in Rayagada district, died after experiencing discomfort during a physical test in Betaguda in Gajapati district. On the same day, Sulanta Misal collapsed after completing a 2-km run and later died while undergoing treatment at the Paralakhemundi hospital.