4 students dead in stampede at Cusat fest in Kerala, CM assures probe

Nikita Gandhi was performing at an open-air auditorium but as it started raining there was a rush among the audience.

Updated on: Nov 25, 2023, 22:28:25 IST

By HT News Desk

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At least four students died and over 60 were injured in a stampede-like situation at a concert in Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) on Saturday. Singer Nikhita Gandhi was performing when the incident took place. Kerala health minister Veena George said the injured students were being taken to Kalamassery Medical College. Two boys and two girls were brought dead upon arrival at Kalamassery Medical College, officials said.

A stampede-like situation took place at Cusat fest in Kochi on Saturday killing 4.

Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan posted on X, “The entire state is in shock over the stampede that unfolded at CUSAT University in Ernakulam. Heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of the four students who lost their lives. Immediate and enhanced treatment facilities have been arranged for the injured. P. Rajeev, the Minister for Industries, and R. Bindu, the Minister of Higher Education, have departed for Ernakulam to assess the situation directly. A thorough investigation into the incident will commence without delay.”

“Deeply shocked and grieved to know about the sad demise of four students at a stampede at Cochin University of Science & Technology. Heartfelt condolences to their families. Prayers for speedy recovery of injured,” Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan said in his message.

The Vice Chancellor of the university said the stampede took place when it started raining. “The fest started yesterday. Various programmes have been arranged as part of the fest. Today there was a musical programme. Students from neighbouring colleges also attended the programme. Unfortunately, the crowd was huge. More than 2,000 people came inside and there was a rush at the stairs.”

A civic official told news agency ANI that the same exit and the entrance to the auditorium led to the stampede. "Students who were entering the auditorium fell down at the stairs and the crowd trampled them," municipal councillor Pramod said.

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HT News Desk
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