Mon Dec 30 19:21:40 UTC 2024: ## Kochi Dance Event Organizer Blamed for MLA’s Fall
**KOCHI, Kerala, December 31, 2024** – The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has blamed the organizers of a large dance event at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium for the serious injury of MLA Uma Thomas, who fell from an unauthorized temporary gallery. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 29th, involved approximately 12,000 dancers attempting a Guinness World Record.
The GCDA statement asserts that Mridanga Vision, the event organizer, violated permit conditions by constructing the gallery without the necessary approvals from the Kochi Corporation, Fire and Rescue Services, and other stakeholders. The authority stated that it will implement stricter safety regulations for future events, improving coordination between relevant agencies.
Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) president Mohammed Shiyas criticized the organizers for negligence, highlighting the presence of Minister for Culture Saji Cherian, GCDA Chairman Chandran Pillai, and an ADGP at the time of the accident. Shiyas also pointed to a lack of on-site medical care and called for a thorough investigation into the incident, including allegations of financial irregularities.
Police have instructed organizers not to dismantle the stage and other event structures as part of the ongoing investigation into safety lapses.
First Piper 