Kerala: Minister K N Balagopal’s vehicle hit by overtaking car; driver found drunk, held

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A major accident was averted when a car allegedly driven by a drunk man rammed into the official vehicle of Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal near Vamanapuram, official said on Sunday. The incident took place around 10 pm while the minister was travelling from Kottarakkara to Thiruvananthapuram in his official car. According to police, a car approaching from the opposite direction tried to overtake another vehicle, hit a car ahead, lost control, and crashed into the front portion of the minister’s vehicle. Although the minister and his staff were inside the car at the time, they escaped unhurt.

However, the vehicle suffered significant damage. Following the accident, MLA G Stephen, who arrived at the scene, offered his vehicle for the minister to continue his journey to Thiruvananthapuram. Police later identified the accused driver as Mathew Thomas, 45, a resident of Elanthoor, and took him into custody. A medical examination confirmed that he was under the influence of alcohol during the crash. A case has been registered, and the accused was released on bail. Both vehicles involved in the collision were moved to the Venjaramoodu police station, officials said.