Mon Dec 30 21:25:50 UTC 2024: ## MLA Injured in Kochi Stadium Fall, Event Organizer Arrested

**KOCHI, INDIA – December 31, 2024** – The manager of Oscar Event Management, Krishnakumar, was arrested on Monday following the serious injuries sustained by Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas after a fall from a 15-foot-high gallery at Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. The incident occurred during a dance event, “Mridanga Naadam,” on Sunday.

Police have also registered a case against the event organizers for negligence, citing a lack of adequate safety railings and insufficient pathway width near the gallery. The case was filed based on a complaint by a member of the MLA’s staff alleging gross negligence.

Charges against the organizers include endangering the life or personal safety of others (Sections 125 (a) and (b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) and allowing dangerous activities without safety precautions (Section 120 (e) of the Kerala Police Act).

A high-ranking police official stated that the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) had only permitted the dance program and instructed organizers to erect any structures under the supervision of competent engineers – a directive that was allegedly ignored. The temporary gallery was reportedly built on a seating area.

The temporary gallery remains intact as evidence, and investigations into safety flaws are underway by Public Works department engineers. A former Kochi Corporation councillor has also filed a complaint with the DGP, demanding stringent action against both the organizers and the GCDA for alleged criminal negligence.

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