Kerala, 29 October 2024: An explosion at Anjootambalam Veererkavu Temple in Kerala’s Nileshwaram during Monday night’s temple festival left 154 people injured. The incident, linked to fireworks set off as part of the festivities, revealed alleged lapses in safety protocols.
The injured, who had gathered to witness the popular Theyyam ritual, included several spectators and devotees. Among them, one individual remains in critical condition, with eight others seriously injured. Hospitals in Kasargod, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Mangalore admitted 97 people for treatment.
Eyewitnesses recall that sparks from ignited firecrackers landed in a room where other fireworks, reportedly worth around Rs 25,000, were stored. A young girl at the scene shared her experience: “The spark fell inside, and suddenly everyone was running. I was hurt in the chaos, but my sister escaped unscathed.”
Police detained two temple officials for questioning on safety compliance. Kasargod Superintendent of Police D. Shilpa stated that the event organizers did not secure the required permissions or adhere to safety guidelines. Kasargod District Collector K. Inbasekar confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway, with forensic teams collecting samples from the accident site.
Local leaders condemned the incident, pointing to procedural failures. CPI(M) MLA M. Rajagopal described the situation as “very unfortunate” and has been in touch with the District Collector. Kasargod MP Rajmohan Unnithan also noted that the mishap occurred after midnight, emphasizing “a serious lapse by officials in ensuring safety protocols.”
