Horse race held violating Covid protocol in Palakkad; case booked against organisers

Palakkad: Violating the Covid restrictions imposed in the state, a horse race was conducted here in connection with Thathamangalam Angadi Vela. A total of 54 horses took part in the race. One of the horses ran into the crowd. The police arrived at the place and stopped the race. A case was charged against the organisers of the event.

The organisers had sought permission of the police and the municipality for conducting the religious rituals in connection with the festival. When they were granted permission for rituals, the organisers also held the horse race which is part of the event.

Though there were no spectators in the beginning, later, people crowded on both sides of the road. Following this, the police came to the place and drove them away. Meanwhile, one of the racing horses ran into the crowd and the rider was injured when he fell down. He was given first aid. Angadi Vela is held once in two years.