A tragic incident at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, near Pune, has sent shockwaves through the institution and the nation, following the untimely death of an 18-year-old cadet, Antariksh Kumar Singh, from Lucknow. The first-term trainee was discovered unresponsive in his hostel room on the morning of October 10, 2025, prompting immediate concern and grief.
The circumstances surrounding the incident began to unfold when fellow cadets noticed Antariksh’s absence from the morning training session. Their search led them to his room, where he was found hanging from a bedsheet. He was promptly transported to the Military Hospital in Khadakwasla, but doctors pronounced him dead upon arrival. The Uttam Nagar Police have classified the incident as an Accidental Death Report (ADR), although preliminary investigations indicate the possibility of suicide pending the results of a post-mortem examination. Notably, no suicide note was found at the scene.
The situation has intensified as Antariksh’s family has accused senior cadets of persistent harassment, alleging that ragging may have contributed to their son’s drastic decision. In a heartfelt statement, they described the mental torment their son faced over recent days, asserting that pleas to the academy officials went unheeded. “This unbearable harassment led him to this step. We demand justice,” the family declared, underscoring their desire for a thorough investigation into the claims.
Antariksh was the son of an ex-serviceman and had only recently begun his journey at the NDA, harboring ambitions of becoming an Indian Air Force officer. His sudden passing has not only devastated his family but also left a profound impact on his fellow cadets and the academy community.
The Pune Police have confirmed that an ADR has been filed and ongoing investigations will examine all aspects of the case. A senior police officer stated, “We are awaiting the post-mortem report and statements from all involved before commenting on the cause of death. The allegations of ragging are being taken seriously.”
In response to the tragedy, the NDA administration has expressed deep sorrow and announced the initiation of a Court of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances that led to the cadet’s death. The academy has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and has promised to support the grieving family during this tumultuous period.
Both the NDA’s inquiry and the Pune Police are now delving into various facets of the case, including the family’s allegations of ragging, the potential for psychological distress, and broader issues of institutional accountability. The community awaits the findings of the investigation to shed light on this heartbreaking loss of a bright young cadet.
