Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India]: The Kerala government on Wednesday decided to cover the medical expenses of those injured in the Nileshwaram fireworks accident in Kasaragod district.
This decision was taken during cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
The Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the fireworks accident, directing the District Collector and Superintendent of Police to submit a report within 15 days.
Meanwhile, one more person, Vijayan from Nileshwaram Kotrachal, has been arrested, bringing the total arrests to four, according to Nileshwaram police. Vijayan was reportedly present at the scene during the fireworks display.
Earlier, three individuals, including the Veerarkavu Temple Committee President, were arrested in connection with the fireworks accident that injured 154 people during the Theyyam festival celebrations at the temple, Nileshwaram police reported on Tuesday.
The Kasaragod District Police has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the accident and a case has been registered against eight temple committee members under non-bailable sections for conducting the fireworks without permission and violating safety guidelines. According to the FIR, the negligent display caused the fire.
The investigation is ongoing under sections of the Explosive Substances Act, BNSA, and attempted murder.
The incident took place around 12:30 am on Tuesday during the annual Kaliyattam festival at the Anjootambalam Veerarkavu Temple. The injured have been admitted to various hospitals.
Following the accident, Kasaragod MP Rajmohan Unnithan told media, “Shocking news came from Nileshwaram in Kasaragod district last night. About 154 people have been injured and admitted to different hospitals. This Theyyam festival is a custom for the people of North Malabar. Every family observes Theyyam… The Theyyam starts from this Veerarkavu Temple, marking the beginning of this year’s Theyyam.”