THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A youth has been taken into custody in connection with the clash during the nightlife celebrations at Manaveeyam Veedhi. Shiva, a native of Karamana, was arrested by the museum police. He was taken into custody based on the footage of the clash that was widely circulated on social media. The video shows a youth being brutally assaulted by a group on the street. The police suspect that Shiva was part of the gang that beat up the youth. Some who are believed to be involved in the clash are also under police surveillance. Police indicate that they will be taken into custody soon.

The incident took place at two o'clock in the morning on Saturday. The clash began when hands inadvertently hit someone during dancing, provoking the opposing group. The victim, Aksal from Poonthura, suffered a severe beating and received treatment at the General Hospital. The museum police subsequently registered a case against two individuals identified in the video based on Aksal's statement.

Manaveeyam Veedhi has been a hotspot for nightlife celebrations following its renovation, extending festivities into the early morning hours. With the inauguration of Keraleeyam, the crowd size has significantly increased. The street food fest has also attracted families to the area. Disturbingly, the video footage of the incident reveals bystanders dancing to the rhythm of the song as the youth was attacked, some even dancing shirtless. The footage shows individuals whistling, shouting, and fueling the conflict. There are allegations that the involved youth were under the influence of alcohol and drugs.The police have also said that the people involved are not regular visitors.The museum police are conducting an extensive investigation centred around the video evidence.

Surveillance will be tightened: DCP

In the wake of the attack, DCP Nidin Raj said that surveillance will be made more strict on Manaveeyam Veedhi. "The rest of the people involved in the conflict will be identified soon. More CCTVs and barricades will be installed on both sides. Rapid action forces will be deployed after 11 pm. The police have intervened effectively in the issue," he said.