Congress MLA Uma Thomas Suffers Severe Injuries After Falling from Stadium Gallery in Kochi

Thrikkakara Congress MLA Uma Thomas is receiving critical care after suffering head and spinal injuries. Reports indicate she fell from a gallery at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium on Sunday evening. Volunteers and others quickly transported the bleeding MLA to a nearby private hospital. A medical bulletin confirmed injuries to her head and spinal cord.

Hospital officials stated that Uma Thomas is on ventilator support and remains in critical care. She reportedly fell from the VIP gallery, approximately 15 feet high, hitting her head on the concrete ground. The incident occurred while she was attending a dance programme at the stadium, which Culture Affairs Minister Saji Cherian was set to inaugurate.

Medical Team and Health Assessment

Health Minister Veena George announced that an expert medical team from the Health Department would evaluate Uma Thomas's condition. This team, led by Dr. Jayakumar from Kottayam Medical College, includes specialists from both Kottayam and Ernakulam Government Medical Colleges. They will work alongside the hospital's existing medical board.

Industries Minister P Rajeeve visited the hospital and mentioned that a medical team would soon join the hospital's doctors. He also discussed Uma Thomas's treatment with Health Minister Veena George. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, who also visited, emphasised the importance of ensuring proper medical care for Uma Thomas.

Event Details and Safety Concerns

Uma Thomas attended the Mridanga Naadam event at the stadium, where around 12,000 dancers performed Bharatanatyam, aiming for a Guinness World Record. Congress sources noted limited space between front row seats and the gallery edge, which was only marked by a ribbon.

Congress leaders have raised concerns about safety measures at the stadium. Hibi Eden MP criticised the inadequate barricading in the VIP gallery, highlighting that only a ribbon marked its edge. Meanwhile, Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya inspected the accident site.

The police have stated they will file a case concerning alleged security lapses at the stadium. Ensuring safety protocols are followed is crucial to prevent such incidents in future events.

Uma Thomas's condition is reportedly stabilising, according to V D Satheesan. The focus remains on providing her with necessary medical attention to aid her recovery.