Mon Dec 30 05:13:11 UTC 2024: ## MLA Uma Thomas Seriously Injured in Stage Collapse; Organizers Booked
**Kochi, Kerala:** MLA Uma Thomas suffered serious injuries after falling from a temporary VIP gallery at a cultural event in Kalur, Kerala. A preliminary investigation by the fire force has revealed severe safety lapses by the organizers, leading to the registration of a case against Mridangam Vision and the stage builders by Palarivattom police.
The incident occurred during a Bharatanatyam performance aimed at a Guinness World Record attempt, led by actress Divya Unni. MLA Thomas fell approximately 20 feet after a temporary barricade she was holding onto gave way. She sustained head injuries, a fractured rib, and lung damage, though doctors report no internal bleeding at present. She remains unconscious after regaining consciousness briefly upon arrival at the hospital and is under 24-hour observation. The extent of her head and lung injuries is considered serious.
The fire force report highlights the absence of crucial safety measures, including the lack of sturdy barricades – a mandatory requirement for stages exceeding two meters in height. The report further states that the organizers failed to inform safety agencies about shifting the event from a planned grassy area to a stage. The seating arrangement was also deemed highly inadequate.
MP Hibi Eden criticized the organizers for neglecting safety standards at the stadium. The FIR filed against the organizers cites defects in stage construction. While ambulances were present, there was a shortage of rescue personnel and doctors. The police investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 