Three killed, 35 seriously injured in Kerala temple elephant rampage

Three killed, 35 seriously injured in Kerala temple elephant rampage

Kerala, India, February 15: During a temple festival at the Manakkulangara Bhagavathy Temple in Koyilandy town, Kozhikode district, two elephants went on a rampage due to fireworks and loud music, causing significant damage. Three people were killed, and 35 others were seriously injured in the incident.

The incident occurred at 5:30 PM on Thursday when one elephant reportedly became violent and started attacking another. The two elephants then went berserk and attacked a section of the temple's office building. When the elephants struck the building, part of its wall collapsed, trapping several people underneath. According to local police, the collapse of the wall resulted in the deaths of two women and one man.

The victims have been identified by local media as Leela (65), Ammukutty (70), and Rajan (70). Authorities stated that fireworks and loud noises are suspected to have triggered the elephants' aggression. "The bodies of Leela and Ammukutty were shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, and Rajan passed away at Meitra Hospital," Koyilandy MLA Kanathil Jameela said.

Videos of the incident have spread rapidly on social media. Officials noted that the toll could have been higher, as many more devotees were arriving for the festival's final day.

"People panicked, resulting in a stampede that caused around 20 minor injuries," a police officer from Koyilandy station said. Later, the number of injured was revised to 35.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the incident tragic and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran ordered an urgent report from officials and stated that further action would be taken based on the findings, including an investigation into potential violations of Kerala’s elephant management rules.

Health Minister Veena George directed special medical arrangements at Koyilandy Taluk Hospital and Kozhikode Medical College, ensuring sufficient medical staff to treat the injured.