Kochi MLA Uma Thomas has initiated legal action against the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), seeking substantial compensation for a severe accident that left her hospitalized and immobile for months. The incident occurred at a major cultural event held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor.
Details of the Stage Fall Incident
The accident took place on December 29, 2024, during the 'Mridanga Nadam' event, a Guinness World Records attempt featuring over 12,000 Bharatanatyam dancers. According to the legal notice sent to the GCDA secretary, MLA Uma Thomas fell from a makeshift stage constructed for the event.
The notice alleges that the platform was dangerously built using plywood and GI pipes and critically lacked safety railings. It claims only a queue manager marked the edge of the high stage, creating a significant fall risk for performers. While stepping onto this platform, Thomas reportedly held onto a queue stand used as a barrier, lost her balance, and fell to the ground.
Severe Injuries and Alleged Negligence
The fall had immediate and serious consequences. Uma Thomas struck her head on a concrete slab on the ground, sustaining severe injuries. The legal notice further highlights a shocking lapse in emergency preparedness.
No emergency medical services or even a stretcher were available on-site. It took more than 10 minutes to physically carry the injured MLA out of the stadium. Her condition was critical; she remained unconscious for nine days following the accident.
Even after regaining consciousness, she was unable to move for over a month. Discharged from the hospital on February 13, 2025, she continued to be immobile and dependent on assistance until April 2025, undergoing intensive Ayurvedic treatment during this period. The notice states she is still recovering from the life-threatening ordeal.
Legal Notice and Compensation Demand
In the notice, MLA Uma Thomas has demanded Rs 2 crore as compensation from the GCDA. The allegations are severe, pointing to gross negligence and wrongful management by the authority.
The notice asserts that the GCDA rented out the stadium for a purpose it was never intended for and abdicated its responsibility, facilitating the construction of an illegal and dangerous platform. It also claims the authority failed to take any action against those responsible for the incident.
Thomas asserts that the GCDA is legally bound to compensate her for the injuries, as well as for the immense hardship and suffering caused to her family and the people of her constituency. This case puts a spotlight on event safety standards and the accountability of public development authorities in managing stadium facilities.
