Uma Thomas MLA's health eased after stadium fall; organisers booked

Kochi: Thrikkakara Congress MLA Uma Thomas, who sustained severe head and spinal injuries in a fall from a gallery at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium on Sunday evening, is showing signs of improvement, hospital authorities revealed.

The MLA reportedly fell approximately 15 feet from the VIP gallery during the 'Mridanga Naadam' event, which aimed to set a Guinness World Record with 12,000 Bharatanatyam dancers, including renowned actor-dancer Divya Unni. Witnesses stated that she hit her head on the concrete ground during the fall.

Hospital authorities reported that Uma Thomas, who was initially critical and on ventilator support, has undergone extensive medical evaluations. A medical bulletin issued on Sunday highlighted injuries to her head and spinal cord, as well as fractures to her face and ribs, causing internal bleeding in her lungs. However, recent assessments by a specialized medical team indicate that previously concerning factors are now stabilizing.

A team of experts led by Kottayam Medical College Superintendent Dr. Jayakumar, including specialists from Kottayam Government Medical College and Ernakulam Government Medical College, has been closely monitoring her condition. They confirmed that while the injuries remain severe, there is no immediate need for emergency surgery.

In response to the incident, the Kochi City Police registered a case against the event organisers and a Kochi-based event management firm, alleging significant safety lapses in the stage and gallery setup. The FIR, filed by Palarivattom police, claims that the VIP gallery lacked adequate safety measures, with the front-row seats positioned dangerously close to the edge and barricaded only with a ribbon. A detailed investigation is underway, officials said.

Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya inspected the accident site on Monday. Congress leaders have alleged severe lapses in safety protocols at the venue.

Doctors clarified that the CT scan revealed no critical fractures to the bones, and sutures have been applied to her injuries. A medical bulletin noted that further progress would be observed over the next 24 hours.

The treatment team at Renai Medicity comprises specialists from various fields, including neurosurgery, orthopedics, cardiology, and critical care. The medical board continues to provide updates on her health.

Congress leaders and government officials, including Minister K. Rajan and Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan, have expressed concern over the incident and visited the hospital. Both leaders emphasized the need for accountability and stricter safety measures at public venues.

With PTI inputs