Kerala Temple Fire Accident Claims Another Life, Death Toll At 5

In Kerala, the explosion occurred on the night of October 28 at the Anjoottanbalam Veererkavu temple during a Theyyam performance when stored firecrackers ignited unexpectedly.

In Kerala’s Kasaragod district, another victim of the recent fireworks accident at a temple near Neeleswaram succumbed to injuries on Saturday, raising the death toll to five. The deceased, identified as Rajith, had been under treatment for severe burns at a private hospital in Mangaluru, where he passed away in the morning, according to officials.

"He had suffered over 50 percent burns," an official stated, according to a report on PTI.

The accident, which initially claimed four lives, has also left 154 individuals injured. Following the incident, 100 people were admitted to various hospitals, with the latest reports from the Kasaragod district administration indicating that 63 of them remain hospitalised, including nine in intensive care.

The explosion occurred on the night of October 28 at the Anjoottanbalam Veererkavu temple during a Theyyam performance when stored firecrackers ignited unexpectedly, as per the report. In response to the tragedy, authorities have arrested three individuals, including two temple committee officials, on charges under the Explosive Substances Act and multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Based on the preliminary investigations, the district Collector pointed out the flaws in maintaining the safety protocols at the temple premises during the festival. "The safety precautions were not taken. The requirement of maintaining a minimum distance of 100 meters between the two was not followed. No permission was taken either for storage of fireworks," the Collector stated.

To address the accident, the Kerala government has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to carry out a thorough probe. Kasaragod District Police Chief, D Shilpa, confirmed the formation of the SIT to investigate all aspects of the incident. In addition, the district administration has directed the Additional District Magistrate to conduct an independent inquiry into the cause and circumstances surrounding the fire.