Ribbon used as handrail? Saji Cherian explains cause of Uma Thomas' fall at Kochi event

Kochi:Uma Thomas, MLA, was seriously injured after falling from a stage constructed for a dance event at Kaloor Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday. The incident is alleged to have occurred due to the unscientific construction of the stage.

The MLA allegedly lost her balance and fell onto the concrete floor while attempting to hold onto a ribbon tied on the stage, which was intended to serve as a handrail to navigate the crowded space. However, the ribbon lacked the necessary strength to support her, causing her to lose her balance and fall.

Minister Saji Cherian, who came to participate in the programme, described the incident, saying, "Instead of the barricade, a ribbon was tied. When I was on stage, she came up and she waved (at him). Then, when she tried to sit down, she grabbed the ribbon and fell. It was a bad fall."

The stage is reportedly 18 feet above the ground and lacked safety measures to prevent falls. "There was only a small space on the stage. Even with a chair, there wasn't enough room to move around. Saji Cherian was the first to arrive, followed by Uma Thomas. The stage was arranged in three rows, and there was also a music programme on the stage," one eyewitness explained. 

The hospital reported that Thomas sustained head and lung injuries, with signs of blood clots. The incident happened during a Guinness World Record attempt at the Kaloor Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where 12,000 dancers were performing.