Kollam (Kerala): A 58-year-old man died following a drunken brawl with his friend at Anappara near Kummil in Kollam district, police said on Monday (October 20, 2025). The deceased has been identified as Sasi, a resident of Pulippara, Kummil.
Brawl after heavy drinking session
According to police, Sasi and his friend had consumed liquor together on Sunday evening at a local spot in Anappara. An argument reportedly broke out between the two after both got heavily intoxicated. The verbal exchange quickly escalated into a physical fight, during which Sasi sustained serious injuries.
Police said locals found Sasi lying unconscious near the roadside and immediately alerted the authorities. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared brought dead by doctors.
Accused taken into custody
The Kummil Police registered a case of unnatural death and took Sasi’s friend, who was allegedly involved in the altercation, into custody for questioning. “Preliminary investigation suggests that the two were long-time acquaintances and had consumed alcohol together on Sunday. A quarrel broke out between them, leading to the victim’s death,” a police official said.
The exact cause of death will be confirmed after the post-mortem examination, which is being conducted at the District Hospital, Kollam.
Investigation underway
Authorities are verifying statements from witnesses and nearby residents to determine whether the death was the result of an assault or an accidental fall during the fight. “We are awaiting the autopsy report to establish whether the injuries were caused by external assault or due to a fall under the influence of alcohol,” police added.
Police also recovered empty liquor bottles and other evidence from the scene. Forensic experts have been called in to assist in the investigation.
Frequent cases of alcohol-related violence
Incidents of violence following excessive alcohol consumption are not uncommon in Kerala. According to official data from the State Crime Records Bureau, several deaths are reported each year across the state due to brawls and accidents linked to drinking.
Public health officials have repeatedly warned about the increasing number of alcohol-related fatalities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, where illicit and unregulated liquor sales are prevalent.
Locals demand stricter checks
Residents of Anappara have urged authorities to tighten surveillance around liquor outlets and unauthorised drinking spots in the area. “Such incidents happen frequently after weekend drinking sessions. Police patrols must be increased in interior areas,” said a local resident.
Conclusion
The Kummil Police said that further legal action will be taken based on the post-mortem findings and forensic evidence. The body of Sasi has been handed over to his family after completion of legal formalities.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.