Sun Jan 04 11:01:58 UTC 2026: Summary:

A 70-year-old man, Ravi, was killed and a 50-year-old man, James, severely injured in a firecracker explosion at St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Jacobite Syrian Church in Kadathy, near Muvattupuzha, Kerala. The incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. while Ravi was allegedly setting up firecrackers for a festival. James is hospitalized and in stable condition. Police have registered a case against the parish priest and two office-bearers for causing death by negligence and unauthorized use of explosives.

News Article:

Firecracker Explosion Kills One, Injures Another at Kerala Church

KOCHI, INDIA – January 4, 2026 – A tragic firecracker explosion at St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Jacobite Syrian Church in Kadathy, near Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam district, Kerala, has claimed the life of a 70-year-old man and left another seriously injured. The incident occurred early Sunday morning at approximately 8:30 a.m.

The deceased has been identified as Ravi of Pandyerpillil, a resident of Rakkad near Muvattupuzha. James, 50, also from Rakkad, sustained severe burns and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Kolenchery. His condition is reported to be stable.

According to a statement from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the explosion occurred while Ravi was allegedly handling explosives in preparation for a festival at the church.

Muvattupuzha police have launched an investigation into the incident and have booked parish priest Fr. Biju Varkey and office-bearers Sabu Paul and Eldho C.M. They face charges of causing death by a rash or negligent act and unauthorized use of explosives under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Indian Explosives Act. The police have collected evidence from the site and are continuing their investigation.

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