Man Dies, Woman Hospitalised After Falling Ill At Mumbai Techno Concert
His female friend was shifted to Jaslok Hospital for medical care and is in a stable condition: Reports
MUMBAI: The world famous ‘Klangkuenstler All Night Long’ music event found itself under scanner after a 28-year-old man died and a woman was hospitalised after they reportedly fell ill during an all-night music concert held on Saturday night at NSCI Dome in Worli.
According to police, the deceased was identified as Rishabh Gangurde, a resident of Mahim. Gangurde complained of severe health complications during or after the event and was rushed to Breach Candy Hospital, where he was declared dead while undergoing treatment. His body was subsequently sent to Nair Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
His female friend was shifted to Jaslok Hospital for medical care and is in a stable condition. She told the police that she had only consumed alcohol and energy drinks, according to the statement.
The police have ruled out any drug angle for now due to a lack of evidence and are examining the CCTV cameras at the venue and other devices as the probe continues into Gangurde's death.
The event, ‘Klangkuenstler Outworld,’ was an all-night techno show featuring Berlin-based DJ Klangkuenstler. The concert ran from 6 pm to 10 pm, with each ticket costing Rs 4,000. It ended on time. The licenses for serving alcohol and other necessary permits for the concert are now being scrutinised closely.
“A drug angle has not emerged so far, but we are awaiting medical and forensic reports before drawing any conclusions,” a senior IPS officer said.
“The police are investigating the matter. Those responsible, if any, will face strict action. No one will be spared,” Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said.
Police have registered an accidental death report and are reviewing CCTV footage from the venue and surrounding areas. They are questioning at least eight individuals, including the organisers, in this connection. The organisers' bank accounts are being looked into for potential illegal black-marketing of tickets.
The incident comes less than two months after two management students allegedly died of a drug overdose following a music concert at the NESCO Exhibition Centre in Goregaon on April 11. The police subsequently arrested 10 accused, including several management students from a reputed South Mumbai college.
The NSCI incident has renewed concerns about safety measures at large entertainment events in Mumbai. Questions are likely to be raised regarding crowd management, availability of medical assistance, monitoring of alcohol consumption and emergency response protocols at concert venues.
