New Delhi, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) on Wednesday mourned the death of three-time Asian Para Games gold medallist Neeraj Yadav, remembering him as a true champion whose remarkable achievements brought pride and glory to the country.
In a condolence message shared on social media, the PCI expressed deep sorrow over the para-athlete’s demise, highlighting his contribution to Indian para sports and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
“A true champion, an inspiration, and a symbol of determination, Neeraj Yadav brought immense pride and glory to the nation through his remarkable achievements in para sports,” the PCI said in a post on Instagram.
“His contribution to Indian para sports and his legacy as a champion will forever be remembered. His passing is an immense loss to the entire para-sports fraternity,” the committee added.
The PCI also extended its heartfelt condolences to Yadav’s family, friends, fellow athletes and loved ones during this difficult time, praying for peace for the departed soul.
Yadav, 42, allegedly died by suicide inside his car in the Maujpur area of northeast Delhi late on Tuesday night, police said. He was taken to Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
According to officials, Jafrabad Police Station received information from the hospital regarding a person who had been brought to its emergency department and declared dead. An investigation has been initiated under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and further inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death is underway.
Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Yadav was among India’s accomplished para-athletes. Diagnosed with polio at the age of seven, he used a wheelchair and initially played wheelchair tennis for around seven years before switching to athletics in 2015.
He made an impressive start at the 2015 Delhi State Athletics Meet, winning gold medals in shot put, javelin throw and discus throw. In 2016, he secured silver medals in the men’s shot put and discus F55 events at the Fazza Grand Prix.
Yadav reached a major milestone at the 2018 Asian Para Games, winning gold in the men’s javelin throw F55 event with an Asian record of 29.84 metres.
He further strengthened his reputation at the 2022 Asian Para Games, held in Hangzhou in October 2023, winning two gold medals. He topped the podium in discus throw in the F54/55/56 class and javelin throw in the men’s F55 category.
In 2022, Yadav also won gold at the Marrakech Para Athletics Grand Prix in Morocco, setting a new Indian national record in the process.
His achievements established him as a prominent figure in Indian para athletics, while his determination and success inspired fellow athletes and aspiring para-sportspersons across the country.
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