Explosive Mishap Mars Temple Festival in Kerala

A fireworks explosion during a Theyyam ritual at a Kerala temple resulted in 154 injuries, eight critically. An investigation is underway, with legal charges filed against those involved. Eyewitness accounts describe chaos and panic as the explosion shocked the gathered crowd.

A catastrophic explosion during a Theyyam performance at a temple near Neeleswaram, Kerala, has left at least 154 individuals injured, eight of whom are in critical condition. The incident, which occurred late Monday night, is attributed to illegally stored firecrackers that detonated during the event. The explosion caused widespread chaos as hundreds, including women and children, fled in panic.

Kasargod District Police have initiated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the incident, with a separate inquiry led by an additional divisional magistrate. Authorities have confirmed booking eight individuals under the Explosive Substance Act and various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, citing negligence and illegal handling of the fireworks.

The district collector reported that serious lapses in safety protocols contributed to the mishap. Fireworks storage was too near the ignition area, and necessary permissions were not obtained. Mobile footage aired by local media captured the explosion's impact, showing people scattering in terror, while the temple premises suffered significant structural damage.