Punjab Newsline | Patiala

A major portion of the false ceiling at the wrestling hall of the Netaji Subhash National Institute of Sports (NSNIS) in Patiala suddenly collapsed during an Independence Day function on Friday, triggering panic among players and others present at the venue.

The incident took place during a special program organised to honour sportspersons on the occasion of Independence Day. According to initial information, a large section of the hall’s false ceiling broke and fell to the ground while the event was underway.

Some people reportedly sustained minor injuries in the incident. However, there were no reports of any serious injuries.

Following the incident, the wrestling hall was immediately evacuated as a precautionary measure. The collapse created panic among those present at the institute.

Meanwhile, no institute official or player was willing to speak on camera about the incident. Media entry into the institute was also reportedly restricted after the ceiling collapse.

The exact reason behind the sudden collapse remains unclear. The incident has raised questions over the safety arrangements and structural quality of facilities at the sports institute, particularly at a venue being used to host athletes and official programs.