Chaos at Kerala Temple: Elephants Cause Tragic Stampede

Kerala Forest Minister orders investigation after elephants run amok during a temple festival, causing a stampede that resulted in three deaths and over 20 injuries. The incident occurred after the animals were agitated by cracker bursts. Strict action will follow if rule violations are found.

In Kerala, an annual temple festival turned tragic when two elephants, agitated by bursting crackers, ran amok leading to a fatal stampede. The incident at the Manakulangara Temple claimed three lives and left over 20 people injured, drawing stern warnings from state authorities.

Kerala Forest Minister A K Saseendran emphasized a thorough investigation into the incident, committing to strict action if any breaches of existing regulations are found. The chaos erupted as the elephants, initially engaging in a fight, demolished part of a building, causing panic among the festival attendees.

Authorities are currently documenting all statements from those involved with the festival. An official report is to be submitted to the Forest Minister to determine if there were any violations of the Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules.

(With inputs from agencies.)