• Source:JND
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An elephant rampaged during an annual festival at a mosque in Kerala’s Malappuram on Wednesday, injuring at least 17 people, including one critically. The incident occurred around 12:30 AM at BP Angadi Jaram Maidan during the Puthiyangadi ritual.

The elephant, identified as Pakath Sreekuttan, became agitated amidst the festival’s rituals. It dragged a man and flung him into the air, causing critical injuries. The victim was rushed to a hospital in Kottakkala, while the chaos led to a stampede-like situation, injuring several others.

Videos circulating online show five elephants adorned with golden plates outside the festively lit mosque. The elephant suddenly ran amok, throwing a man with its trunk into the air as the mahout struggled to regain control. The elephant was subdued by 2:15 AM.

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The festival drew large crowds, many of whom were filming the elephants when the chaos unfolded. The viral video highlights the danger posed by such incidents, sparking discussions on man-animal conflicts in the state.

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Kerala has witnessed significant human-wildlife conflicts over the years. Between 2016 and 2025, 915 people lost their lives, with 146 deaths reported in 2018-19 alone. Last year, 19 fatalities were recorded till October, according to the figures presented in the state Assembly. 

The state government has disbursed Rs 27 crores in compensation to victims' families and Rs 24 crores to those injured. Preventive measures, including solar fences, trenches and compound walls, have cost Rs 33.19 crores.