Mon Feb 23 16:01:17 UTC 2026: ### Godown Collapse in Kozhikode Sparks Massive Protests
The Story:
On Monday, February 23, 2026, a tragic incident occurred in Kozhikode, India, when the concrete slab of an old godown collapsed in Valiyangadi, resulting in the death of four headload workers. The collapse triggered immediate and widespread protests led by the BJP and the Youth Congress. Protesters demanded accountability from the Corporation authorities, alleging negligence in maintaining or demolishing the dilapidated structure. Political leaders are calling for a culpable homicide case to be registered and for substantial compensation to be provided to the families of the deceased.
Key Points:
- Four headload workers died after a godown collapsed in Valiyangadi, Kozhikode on February 23, 2026.
- Protests were organized by the BJP and Youth Congress, with the BJP marching to the Corporation office and the Youth Congress laying siege to the secretary’s office.
- M.K. Raghavan, MP, demanded a culpable homicide case against Corporation authorities for failing to maintain or demolish the dangerous building.
- District Congress Committee president K. Praveen Kumar stated the Corporation authorities bore full responsibility and sought an investigation under a sitting judge.
- Compensation of ₹25 lakh was demanded for the families of the deceased.
- Indian Union Muslim League district president M.A. Razak Master also demanded a culpable homicide case against the Corporation authorities.
Key Takeaways:
- The incident highlights the dangers posed by aging and poorly maintained infrastructure in Indian cities.
- The rapid mobilization of political parties underscores the potential for such incidents to escalate into significant political events.
- Public safety concerns are being leveraged by opposition parties to criticize the ruling Corporation authorities.
- Demands for compensation reflect a growing expectation of government accountability in cases of negligence leading to loss of life.
First Piper 