Thiruvananthapuram: MLA Uma Thomas was seriously injured after falling from the gallery at the Kaloor Stadium in Kochi on the evening of December 29. Saji Cherian said that the accident happened because the barricades were not erected to ensure safety.
Minister Saji Cheriyan said that during the opening ceremony of the dance program, Uma Thomas had difficulty reaching the stage where the accident occurred, and that she had to sit from behind the stage because it was high.
No one went forward because there was a big gap in front, and since it was tall, a barricade should have been built in front to ensure safety. “I didn’t see Uma Thomas coming. Joy Alukas and I were sitting on the other side. Madam got up and laughed when she saw me, and I laughed too. Within seconds, they were falling out. I don’t know what happened. Instead of a barricade, a stand was put there. That too fell. I was the first to shout. There was a huge commotion. When I shouted at the top of my voice, people who came running were taking me to the hospital.
“I have never been hurt so much. She has a beautiful smile. Such a cute smile. The accident happened to her after she saw me and smiled. Uma Thomas’ smile has not faded till this moment. She is like a sister. She came to Thiruvananthapuram today after spending 2 days in the hospital and staying for hours. She will go to the hospital tomorrow too,” said Saji Cheriyan.
