Kochi | Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas sustained critical injuries this evening in a fall at the Kaloor International Cricket Stadium. The incident occurred while she was attending an event at the venue.

Uma Thomas, a Congress MLA representing the Thrikkakara constituency in Ernakulam district and the wife of the late Congress leader and former MLA PT Thomas, fell from a height of about 15 feet onto a concrete floor. The accident happened when she tried to use a temporary ribbon barricade for support while walking along the edge of the stage-cum-VIP gallery. The barricade, made of nominal material, collapsed, causing her to lose balance and fall.

The gallery had 40 seats, with dignitaries including Minister Saji Cheriyan present. Initially, Uma Thomas was seated at one location but later moved to the center to greet attendees. The stage did not have a permanent barricade; during cricket matches, temporary iron fencing was typically used for security.

Uma Thomas sustained significant injuries, including a considerable head injury, blood clots in her lungs, overall body bruises, and some bone fractures. A CT scan revealed the severity of her injuries, and she remains unconscious and on ventilator support. Doctors have decided to keep her under observation for 24 hours before initiating any further treatment, including potential surgeries.

The government has constituted a special medical team led by cardiologist and Kottayam Medical College head Dr. TK Jayakumar to assist the private hospital in her treatment. The team has already reached the hospital to provide their expertise.

Uma Thomas was attending Mrudanga Nadam, a mega Bharatanatyam event featuring nearly 12,000 artistes, aimed at setting a Guinness World Record. Officials from the Guinness World Records were present to witness the event, which continued as scheduled despite the tragic incident.