Ravi Thakur - Saturday, Oct 04, 2025A shocking incident occurred on Friday (October 3) during the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi. Stray dogs entered the stadium and attacked the coaches from Japan and Kenya, causing panic throughout the complex. Both coaches were immediately taken to the hospital, where they were treated and given anti-rabies injections.
According to reports, around 9 a.m., while players and coaches were preparing for their respective sessions, two stray dogs entered the stadium premises. Kenyan coach Dennis Maragia was talking to his player near the call room when suddenly one of the dogs came from behind and bit him on the leg. Blood started flowing, and nearby staff immediately pulled him out.
Just minutes later, Japan's women's team coach, Meiko Okumatsu, was the victim of a similar incident. She was supervising players on the practice track when another dog approached her and bit her. Both incidents occurred half an hour apart, sparking fear and outrage among foreign teams.
The organizing committee of the World Para Athletics Championships responded immediately to the incident. They stated that both coaches were immediately taken to Safdarjung Hospital, where they returned safely to their hotel after receiving first aid. According to the organizers, a complete review of security arrangements is underway and two dog-catching teams have now been permanently deployed at the stadium.
The committee also stated that on August 21, 2025, a letter was written to the Municipal Corporation of India (MCD) requesting the removal of dogs from the stadium premises. The premises were cleared at that time, but the dogs re-entered in search of food. The premises have now been re-sanitized and security has been increased.
This isn't the first incident of stray dog menace in the national capital. The Supreme Court has issued strict instructions on this issue, but the situation remains the same. Such incidents during international events not only raise questions about security arrangements but also damage India's global image.
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