Kochi: The Palarivattom police have initiated legal proceedings against the organizers and stage contractors of the Mridanga Vision event, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kaloor, after Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas sustained critical injuries in a stage collapse incident. The case was registered under Sections 125 (endangering safety), 125(b) (causing grievous hurt), and 3(5) (joint liability) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act, 2011. Shalu Vincent, a staff member of the MLA, lodged the complaint.
The FIR highlights that the VIP stage lacked essential safety features, including sufficient walking space and protective railings, causing Uma Thomas to fall nearly 14 feet during the event. She suffered fractures to her face, ribs, and head, along with severe internal injuries to her lungs, spine, and brain. The MLA was immediately admitted to Renai Medicity, where she remains under intensive care. The hospital confirmed she was placed on a ventilator due to internal bleeding and trauma caused by the fall.
The event, showcasing a grand Bharatanatyam performance by actor Divya Unni and 12,000 dancers, was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Minister Saji Cherian and the Kochi City Police Commissioner. However, the lack of adequate safety measures for the VIP gallery, which had a seating capacity of 40, has raised serious concerns. Sub-Inspector Mithun Mohan is leading the investigation into the matter. The incident has brought attention to the critical need for stringent safety protocols at large-scale public events.
