Series Of Blasts In Kerala's Ernakulam During Prayer Meet; At Least One Died, Many Injured

A convention center in Kerala”s Kalamassery witnessed a tragic event today, with reports of one fatality and 20 injuries in a series of explosions. The distressing incident occurred shortly after the commencement of a prayer meeting, with at least two explosions happening within minutes of each other. This unsettling situation unfolded during a gathering of Jehovah”s Witnesses at the Kalamassery center, situated approximately 10 kilometers away from Ernakulam town.

Attendees at the convention center recounted that the initial explosion disrupted a prayer session.

More than 2,000 individuals congregated at the Zamra International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Kalamassery for the three-day Jehovah”s Witnesses convention, reports said.

An eyewitness told Kerala”s Manorama News that a series of approximately three explosions rocked the convention hall. They recounted, “Multiple blasts occurred while we were engaged in prayer within the hall. Tragically, a woman lost her life in the incident. Women and children were also among the convention attendees.”

36 individuals, who sustained injuries in the explosion, were taken to the Government Medical College Hospital.

Within this group, seven individuals, including a child, are currently under intensive care, according to reports. Nine patients in critical condition have been transferred to Sunrise Hospital in Kakkanad. In response to the situation, Health Minister Veena George has issued a directive for government doctors on leave to return to duty without delay. Comprehensive preparations have been set in motion at Kalamassery Government Medical College, Ernakulam General Hospital, and Kottayam Government Medical College.

Police told the media that they have not identified what caused the explosion yet.