Overcrowding at Hanan Shaah concert sends 16 to hospital; organisers booked
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Kasaragod: Police on Monday registered a case against the organisers of a music concert in Kasaragod after severe overcrowding caused chaos and left several attendees struggling to breathe, officials said.
The concert, featuring Malayalam singer Hanan Shaah, was held on Sunday night as part of an expo at a ground near the private bus stand. According to police, overcrowding at the venue led to panic and discomfort among spectators, with around 16 people shifted to the hospital after they experienced breathing difficulties and dizziness.
Officers intervened and halted the event soon after the situation escalated. As many spectators refused to disperse, the crowd had to be forcefully cleared, police said.
A case has been registered against the organisers, Shahzaman Thottan, Nawalu Rahiman, Haris Aboobeckar, Khalid E.D., Jubair, and other identifiable members of the organising committee. The FIR noted that the organisers had applied for permission for a 5,000-strong audience.
However, after examining the temporary stage and venue conditions, police granted approval for only 3,000 people and issued a written warning instructing the organisers to prevent overcrowding. Despite this, organisers allegedly sold tickets to more than 10,000 attendees, the FIR said.
The Kasaragod Police Station registered the case under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Sections 125 (endangering human life), 125(a) (endangering life or personal safety when hurt is caused), 189(3) (unlawful assembly), 3(5) (joint criminal liability), and Kerala Police Act 118(e) (knowingly committing an act causing public danger).
Police officials said the organisers have been summoned for interrogation and further legal action is underway.
With PTI inputs