Kozhikode: The state government has cancelled all cultural and art events planned in connection with the ongoing Nava Kerala Sadas in Kozhikode after four students were killed and several injured in a stampede at Cochin University of Science and Technology here on Saturday. 

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has summoned an emergency meeting at the government guest house in Kozhikode. The CM condoled the death of the students. 

Minister P Rajeeve, who represents Ernakulam district in the cabinet, and higher education minister R Bindu will reach Kochi to take stock of the situation. Health Minister Veena George told the media that she would coordinate the health department's activities from Kozhikode.

In a statement, Pinarayi directed authorities to ensure treatment to all injured and asserted that matters that led to the incident would be examined in detail. 

Students inside the university campus were enjoying a live musical concert by well-known singer Nikhita Gandhi. The event was interrupted by sudden rain that led the audience to scamper for shelter.

Several students were injured in the stampede that ensued as students rushed to sheltered areas during the downpour. Two boys and two girls lost their lives while over 60 others were injured. The injured are undergoing treatment at the Ernakulam Government Medical College Hospital and other hospitals in the district, said Veena George. The condition of five students is said to be critical.
(With PTI inputs)