Kolhapur – A celebratory victory procession in Kolhapur's Chandgad constituency took a dramatic turn when Independent MLA Shivaji Patil and three to four others were injured after gulal (colored powder) released from a JCB caught fire. The incident occurred in Mahagaon during a post-election celebration.

Shivaji Patil, who contested and won as an Independent candidate after rebelling against the BJP, was leading a jubilant victory procession. Supporters were using a JCB to scatter gulal over the crowd to celebrate the win. At the same time, women were performing a traditional aarti (welcoming ritual) for the MLA-elect. However, a large quantity of gulal fell from the JCB, sparking a sudden fire.

The flames injured Shivaji Patil and others nearby, creating chaos as people scrambled to safety.

What Happened?

• Location: Mahagaon, Chandgad constituency, Kolhapur.
• Trigger: Gulal falling from a JCB caught fire, possibly due to a spark or other inflammable material in the area.
• Injuries: Shivaji Patil and 3-4 others suffered minor burns. No severe injuries were reported.
• Response: Emergency measures were taken to douse the fire, and the injured were treated promptly.

Victory Celebrations Gone Awry

Shivaji Patil, who defeated major political players in Chandgad constituency, was celebrating his victory with supporters. Women were seen performing aarti as gulal rained down from a JCB as part of the grand celebration. However, the fire disrupted the joyous event, leading to panic among attendees.

Videos of the incident show gulal being released in large amounts from the JCB before the fire erupted. Witnesses reported a stampede-like situation as people tried to move away from the flames. Shivaji Patil and others injured in the fire are reportedly stable. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, focusing on whether inflammable materials or electrical sparks contributed to the incident. Supporters have continued subdued celebrations after ensuring the safety of those injured. 

Shivaji Patil, a former BJP candidate, contested the election as an Independent after rebelling against the party. His victory in Chandgad is seen as a significant political upset in the region.

This incident highlights the need for better safety measures during large-scale celebrations to avoid such mishaps in the future.