Unnao, Feb 20: A seasoned cricket umpire with nearly three decades of experience tragically lost his life after being attacked by a swarm of bees during a match at Sapru Stadium in Unnao.
Manik Gupta, a respected figure in the Kanpur cricket circuit and a state panel umpire affiliated with the Kanpur Cricket Association, had just completed officiating a game when the incident occurred. According to family members, he had walked over to meet a fellow umpire during the drinks interval of another match underway at the venue.His brother, Amit Kumar Gupta, said that while the two were having tea during the break, a swarm of bees suddenly descended upon those gathered. In the ensuing chaos, several individuals were attacked. Manik, while attempting to escape, reportedly lost his balance and fell, after which the bees swarmed over him.
A fellow umpire, Jagdish Sharma, who was present at the ground, recalled that the attack happened without warning. He said that although others tried to run or lay flat on the ground to shield themselves, Manik, being older, struggled to get away in time and bore the brunt of the attack.
Neighbours and members of the local cricket fraternity expressed shock and grief at the untimely demise. Bhartendu Puri, a neighbour, described Manik as someone who had devoted his life to the game and worked tirelessly to support his family through umpiring. He termed the incident deeply unfortunate and remembered him as a distinguished and dedicated official in the region’s cricketing circles.Gupta had been officiating matches for around 30 years and was widely regarded for his commitment and integrity on the field. His sudden passing has left the local cricket community in mourning.The tragic episode has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity in Unnao and Kanpur, with colleagues and players remembering Manik Gupta not merely as an umpire, but as a quiet guardian of the game who upheld its spirit with diligence and humility. (Agencies)
