PANAJI
The 26-year-old IIT topper, Karan Kashyap, reportedly suffered from acute kidney injury, cerebral edema and pulmonary edema – medical conditions indicating excess fluid in the body. Kashyap, a native of Delhi, was rushed to Vision Hospital in Mapusa from the Sunburn EDM venue in Dhargalim, where doctors declared him dead.
Reliable sources told The Goan that the private hospital's preliminary medical findings are being examined whereas the forensic doctors at the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) sent samples to the State Forensic Science Laboratory in Verna for chemical analysis and histopathology. The autopsy was carried out on Sunday and the youth’s body was handed over to his family the same evening.
Forensic reports are crucial to ascertain the cause of death but it is expected within one to three months.
“The post-mortem revealed excess fluid/substance in the body, which affected the target organs being kidneys, brain and lungs,” the source stated.
“The nature of the substance or possible toxin is not clear as of now, and hence samples have been sent to Verna FSL through the local police. The exact cause of death is reserved until reports are received.”
In a media statement issued on Monday evening, Sunburn organizers expressed condolences while reiterating their zero-tolerance policy on substance abuse. They claimed that medical assistance was provided to Kashyap but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
“We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident involving a young festival attendee and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time. As soon as we were alerted of his situation, our medical team and on-site doctors acted promptly to provide assistance on-site before rushing him to the hospital in Mapusa for further care.
Unfortunately, despite all efforts, he could not be revived and passed away while undergoing treatment at the hospital,” the spokesperson said.
“Sunburn has always had a strict zero-tolerance policy towards substance abuse and works proactively with the Goa Police and regulatory authorities, to ensure a safe and secure environment at all our events. Sunburn has always been committed to the safety and well-being of all its attendees and we urge all citizens to prioritize their health and safety and to exercise care and caution while enjoying the festival,” it added.
The police, on the other hand, claimed they had several teams deployed in and around the venue all through the event from December 28-30. North Goa SP Akshat Kaushal is quoted as saying that legal action will follow if there's any foul play.
