Malappuram: A man injured in an elephant attack during the Puthiyangadi Nercha at BP Angadi, Malappuram, died on Friday while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Kottakkal. The deceased, Krishnankutty, 60, was a native of Ezhur.

The incident occurred on January 8 around 12:30 am, when the elephant, Paakkath Sreekuttan, became violent, grabbing Krishnankutty with its trunk and throwing him into the crowd. At least 17 others sustained injuries during the chaos. The situation was brought under control when mahouts successfully restrained the elephant, and their quick relocation of four other elephants from the vicinity averted additional harm.

Krishnankutty is survived by his wife, Prema, a driving school instructor, and two sons, Ajith and Abhijith.

In light of the incident, the Kerala High Court has directed the Malappuram District Collector to submit a report by Monday detailing the permissions granted for the event and other related information.