Pune: Tolani Maritime Institute Booked After Student Dies in Basketball Pole Collapse

A criminal case has been filed against Tolani Maritime Institute after a tragic accident led to the death of a 20-year-old student at its Induri campus in Maval taluka of Pune district. The incident has raised serious questions about safety standards within the institution. According to officials, the student lost his life after a basketball structure collapsed during routine activity on the campus grounds. The unfortunate episode has triggered widespread concern among students and parents, prompting scrutiny of infrastructure maintenance and accountability. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings as part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal mishap.

The First Information Report (FIR) was lodged on April 15 at the Talegaon MIDC Police Station, which falls under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate. The complaint was submitted by Ashok Baburam Verma, a resident of Uttar Pradesh and father of the deceased student. The victim has been identified as Vishal Baburam Verma, who was pursuing his second year in Marine Engineering at the institute. Based on the complaint, police have begun examining potential lapses that may have contributed to the incident. Officials confirmed that statements are being recorded and evidence is being gathered to determine the extent of responsibility.

As per preliminary findings shared by the police, the accident took place on April 5 while Vishal was present on the institute’s playground. During exercise, he reportedly held onto a basketball hoop when the supporting iron pole suddenly gave way. The structure collapsed without warning and struck him on the head, causing critical injuries. He was immediately rushed for medical treatment; however, he later succumbed to his injuries. Investigators are now focusing on whether the equipment met safety standards and if regular inspections were conducted to prevent such dangerous failures.

The complaint has named several individuals, including Principal Sanjit Kango, members of the ground maintenance team, the sports department head, and the institute’s management. The family has alleged that the basketball pole was in a deteriorated condition, claiming it was rusted and lacked proper upkeep. They have accused the authorities of ignoring basic maintenance responsibilities, which they believe directly led to the fatal accident. These allegations are being reviewed as part of the probe, and officials have indicated that accountability will be fixed based on findings.

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The incident has sparked strong reactions among students, many of whom expressed anger over the delay in action and handling of the case. A video circulating on social media shows a tense confrontation between students and a police officer on campus. In the footage, a group of students can be seen arguing and briefly surrounding the officer, demanding answers. The situation, however, was eventually brought under control. The protest reflects growing frustration among the student community, who are calling for transparency and swift justice in the matter.

Meanwhile, Vishal’s family has described the incident as a clear case of negligence and is demanding strict legal action against those responsible. They have also alleged that timely medical assistance was not provided, claiming that there was no immediate emergency response or ambulance available on campus at the time of the accident. Originally from Ayodhya, Vishal was remembered as a talented student and an accomplished athlete who had won medals. His family stated they had invested nearly Rs 20 lakh in his education and are now seeking justice for their loss.

Police officials have confirmed that a detailed investigation is currently underway, covering both the cause of the accident and the subsequent unrest on campus. Authorities are examining all aspects, including maintenance records, emergency response systems, and institutional accountability. They have assured that appropriate action will be taken based on the evidence collected. The case continues to draw attention as it highlights concerns over campus safety and the responsibilities of educational institutions in ensuring the well-being of their students.