Tragedy at Mandya kabaddi tournament: One dead, 13 injured after gallery collapse

A kabaddi tournament turned tragic in Mallanayakanakate village, Mandya district, when a spectator gallery collapsed, killing one person and injuring 13 others. The incident occurred around 9 PM on Saturday during the Mysore division-level Sri Bhairava Cup tournament.

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The deceased, identified as Papannachari (50), was trapped under the collapsed structure and died on the spot. The injured have been admitted to MIMS Hospital for treatment.

Initial investigations revealed that the gallery was constructed using low-strength iron and lacked proper interlocking systems. Though designed to accommodate hundreds, thousands of spectators had gathered, far exceeding its capacity. The overload, combined with poor construction quality, led to the sudden collapse.

The tournament, which was scheduled to continue through the weekend, was immediately suspended following the tragedy. Angered by the incident, villagers have demanded strict action against the person responsible for installing the faulty gallery. They are urging authorities to hold the organizers accountable for the negligence that resulted in the fatal accident.

Local officials have launched a probe into the incident, and further legal steps are expected. Meanwhile, the community mourns the untimely loss of life at what was meant to be a festive sporting event.