30 BJP workers sustained minor injuries after helium balloons exploded during PM Modi's birthday celebrations on 17th September, in Chennai. The event was conducted by BJP farmer association functionary near Chennai’s Ambattur.As many as 2,000 gas balloons were to be flown in sky. According to reports, the organisers used fireworks to welcome Muthurama, deputy leader of the agricultural team when a spark from fireworks resulted in explosion of gas-filled balloons. People standing near the balloons suffered burn injuries. All of the injured persons were rushed to a nearby hospital.
“At least 100 people were gathered at Padavattamman Koil street at Padi to welcome one Muthuraman, who is the BJP farmer association functionary. The people were holding hundreds of balloons filled with hydrogen gas. They were planning to release 2000 balloons into the air, but did not get permission from the police,” The Indian Express quoted Porkodi, Inspector of Korattur police station as saying. While thanking people for their birthday wishes, PM Modi had on Thursday appealed to everyone to wear masks, maintain ‘Do Gaj Ki Doori’ (social distancing) to stem the spread of Coivd-19 pandemic.He urged people to strictly maintain social distancing, avoid visiting crowded places and improve immunity to keep themselves safe from the coronavirus. "Since many have asked, what is it that I want for my birthday, here is what I seek right now: Keep wearing a mask and wear it properly; Follow social distancing. Remember 'Do Gaj Ki Doori'; Avoid crowded spaces; Improve your immunity," the PM said on Twitter.