Indian Para Powerlifting Champion Rohit Dhankar Dies After Brutal Assault Following Wedding Altercation

Rohit Dhankar, a decorated para powerlifting athlete who represented India internationally, tragically lost his life following a brutal assault in Haryana's Rohtak district.

The 28-year-old national champion died on Saturday at Pandit BD Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, two days after being severely beaten with iron rods and hockey sticks.

The incident occurred after Dhankar and his friend Jatin attended a wedding ceremony at a relative's house in Rewari Khera on November 27. During the event, Dhankar confronted some guests from the groom's side about their inappropriate behavior.

While returning to Rohtak after the ceremony, their vehicle was deliberately struck from behind. A group of 15-20 men surrounded them and launched a vicious attack on Dhankar, inflicting serious injuries. Jatin managed to escape the assault.

Dhankar was initially taken to Bhiwani General Hospital but was transferred to Rohtak as his condition worsened, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

Recounting the events, Jatin explained, "Rohit and I objected to their abusive language at the wedding. The issue seemed resolved after my brother-in-law intervened. However, when we left an hour later, these men intercepted our vehicle. They smashed the passenger window where Rohit was sitting and struck my window with a rod."

He continued, "We were forced to stop at a railway crossing where we were surrounded. One of their cars blocked us from the front, and three were behind us. They captured Rohit while I managed to escape."

Investigating officer Devendra Kumar confirmed, "Rohit and Jatin objected to unruly behavior by some intoxicated individuals. They were attacked by a group of men around 11:30 pm while returning home." Police have detained six suspects and seized one vehicle used in the attack.

Dhankar was a distinguished athlete with impressive credentials: a two-time junior para national record holder, seven-time senior para national champion, and international competitor in para powerlifting. He worked as a gym trainer and had previously been honored by former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

Dhankar's uncle revealed the severity of the attack, stating, "There were around 30 to 35 bruise marks on his body. We want justice."