Bambolim Highway Tragedy: Sepaktakraw Leaders Yogender Singh Dahiya and Ankit Kumar Killed in Head-On Collision
Panaji, November 5 (Agency):
In a tragic accident that has plunged the Indian and global Sepaktakraw community into mourning, two prominent sports figures — Yogender Singh Dahiya (52), President of the Sepaktakraw Federation of India (STFI), and Ankit Kumar Baliyan, national coach and referee — were killed in a horrific road crash on the Bambolim Highway in Goa in the early hours of Tuesday.
The accident occurred around 1 a.m., when a tanker descending a slope reportedly lost control, crossed the central divider, and rammed head-on into the rent-a-car carrying the two officials. The impact was so severe that the car was completely mangled, leaving no chance of survival for the occupants.
According to Goa Police, preliminary investigations suggest overspeeding and loss of control of the tanker as the likely causes. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but both victims were declared dead on the spot. Their bodies have been shifted to Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim, for post-mortem examination. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.
A Void in the Sepaktakraw World
The deaths of Dahiya and Baliyan have created an irreplaceable void in the world of Sepaktakraw — a sport that has grown steadily in India under their leadership.
Yogender Singh Dahiya, hailing from Delhi, had been serving as the President of the Sepaktakraw Federation of India, Deputy President of the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF), and Assistant Secretary General of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) since 2017. Known for his organizational acumen and deep commitment to the sport, Dahiya was the driving force behind India hosting the ISTAF World Cup 2025 in Bihar from March 2–11, 2025 — a landmark event supported by the Bihar State Sports Authority.
Over the past two decades, Dahiya chaired several committees within ASTAF and ISTAF, contributing significantly to policy development, tournament organization, and the promotion of Sepaktakraw across Asia. His vision helped establish the Asian Cup and positioned India as a serious player on the international stage.
Ankit Kumar Baliyan: A Young Leader Lost Too Soon
Ankit Kumar Baliyan, who accompanied Dahiya on the ill-fated trip, was a national team coach, a qualified international referee, and an International Technical Official for both ASTAF and ISTAF. Known for his humility, discipline, and technical expertise, Baliyan represented the next generation of Sepaktakraw leadership in India. His sudden demise has left the fraternity heartbroken, with colleagues recalling his dedication to nurturing young players and maintaining the highest standards of officiating.
Global Condolences and Tributes
The tragedy has triggered an outpouring of grief from across the Sepaktakraw world.
ISTAF President Boonchai Lorhpipat, Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) President Datuk Abdul Halim Kader, South Asia Sepaktakraw Federation President S.R. Prem Raj, and STFI Joint Secretary Perika Suresh were among the first to issue condolence messages.
“Yogender was more than a colleague — he was like a brother to me. His leadership, friendship, and commitment to Sepaktakraw are irreplaceable,” said Datuk Halim Kader, praising Dahiya’s historic achievement in bringing the ISTAF World Cup to India for the first time.
In a joint statement, the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF), Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF), and Sepaktakraw Federation of India (STFI) expressed their profound sorrow:
“For over two decades, Yogender Singh Dahiya and Ankit Kumar Baliyan dedicated their lives to advancing Sepaktakraw with passion and integrity. Their contributions have illuminated the sport’s journey and will continue to inspire future generations. They will forever be remembered with honor and respect.”
A Nation and a Sport in Mourning
As arrangements are being made to transport the mortal remains to Delhi, condolences continue to pour in from sports administrators, players, and federations worldwide. Tributes are also being shared on social media, with players calling Dahiya and Baliyan “true torchbearers of Indian Sepaktakraw.”
With the 2025 World Cup preparations now overshadowed by this tragic loss, the Sepaktakraw community vows to honor their memory by continuing their mission to expand and elevate the sport both in India and internationally.
