Even before the controversy surrounding the Goregaon NESCO drug overdose case had subsided, another serious incident at a major music event in Mumbai has triggered fresh concerns about crowd management, safety measures and the approval process for large-scale entertainment events.
A 28-year-old man died while a 31-year-old woman was hospitalised after both reportedly fell ill during a live music concert held at the NSCI Dome in Worli on Saturday night.
The incident has once again brought the spotlight on the regulation of high-profile music events and whether authorities have effectively addressed concerns that surfaced after previous tragedies.
According to police, the event featuring German techno artist Klangkuenstler began at 7 pm on June 6 and attracted thousands of attendees. Ticket prices reportedly started at Rs 3,000 and went up to premium categories costing significantly more.
The deceased has been identified as Vrushabh Mahendra Gangurde (28), a resident of Mahim. He had attended the concert along with friends. During the event, Gangurde and a 31-year-old female companion allegedly began feeling unwell amid the crowded conditions inside the venue.
Witnesses stated that Gangurde suddenly collapsed while dancing. He was immediately shifted to Breach Candy Hospital in an ambulance stationed at the venue but was declared dead on arrival. The woman was admitted to Jaslok Hospital, where she remains under treatment.
Police said the woman informed investigators that she had consumed alcohol and energy drinks during the concert.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Meena said preliminary findings indicate that Gangurde may have suffered a cardiac arrest allegedly linked to excessive alcohol consumption. However, he clarified that investigations are ongoing
and all possible angles are being examined.
"We are reviewing CCTV footage, medical reports and witness statements. The investigation is being carried out from all angles," a police officer said.
Sources claimed that local police had initially expressed reservations about approving the programme due to security and crowd-management concerns, particularly in the wake of the Goregaon NESCO tragedy. However, the event allegedly received clearance after intervention from senior authorities.
While these claims have not been officially confirmed, they have sparked debate over the process through which large gatherings continue to receive approval despite recent safety concerns.
Several videos purportedly recorded inside the venue have surfaced on social media following the incident. The footage has led to speculation about conditions inside the concert and whether substance abuse may have played a role.
Police have not confirmed any drug angle so far. Officials said CCTV footage from the venue and other electronic evidence are being examined as part of the investigation.
One participant who attended the event said authorities appeared to have strengthened safety measures significantly after the NESCO incident.
"I had attended a NESCO event where two people died due to a drug overdose. After that, I attended the Worli Dome event, and I can say the authorities are very careful now. There were two rounds of security checks, swab tests were being conducted repeatedly, and a dog squad was present," she said.
The attendee further claimed that due to Mumbai's humid weather, people were seen gathering more frequently at water stations than alcohol counters.
"Everyone was dancing continuously, and hydration was important because of the weather conditions," she said.
The Tardeo Police have registered a case under Sections 106(1), 289, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
A negligence case has been registered against Space Bound, the company that organised the music concert, along with its CEO and Senior Manager. Both have been taken into police custody.
According to sources, the event organisers had allegedly failed to make adequate emergency medical arrangements at the concert venue. Such medical preparedness is mandatory under prescribed safety norms and is considered essential for handling any medical emergency during large public events.
Police are also investigating whether any narcotic substances may have been involved in the incident. Officials said the exact cause of death remains inconclusive as doctors have reserved their opinion pending further examination.
“The doctors have reserved their opinion, and the investigation is continuing from all possible angles, including a potential drug link,” a police officer said.
“Family members informed us that he had a history of heavy alcohol consumption but had stopped drinking several years ago. They were surprised to learn that he may have consumed alcohol again at the event,” police said.
