Shillong

Two youths undergoing Agniveer training at the Assam Regimental Centre have died due to a suspected bacterial infection, while 28 other trainees are under medical observation at the Military Hospital in Shillong, officials said on Wednesday.

According to officials, one trainee passed away last week and another succumbed on Monday. Both had been admitted to the Military Hospital after exhibiting symptoms consistent with meningococcal bacterial infection.

“We have collected samples from the patients, and we are awaiting tests to confirm,” a senior Army official told PTI.

In a statement, the Defence PRO in Shillong said precautionary measures have been initiated in line with established medical protocols. Medicines have been administered to all close contacts of the affected trainees, and preventive steps such as mandatory mask use and restricted movement within the training facility have been enforced.

“Authorities are monitoring the situation closely. There is no cause for alarm or panic,” the statement said.

Meghalaya Health Minister W Shylla said the state health department is working in coordination with military authorities.

“We have stepped up surveillance and preparedness measures,” he said, adding that necessary public health protocols are in place. The minister urged residents not to panic but to remain vigilant about any symptoms.

Meanwhile, medical teams are closely monitoring the hospitalised trainees. As part of containment measures, the CSD canteen run by the Ministry of Defence and other facilities frequented by the trainees have been sanitised.

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Authorities said further action will be guided by the results of laboratory tests and ongoing medical assessments.