Andhra Pradesh stampede: PM Modi expresses grief; announces ₹2 lakh ex-gratia

Srikakulam, AP: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, where at least 10 devotees were killed and several were injured.

“Pained by the stampede in Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon,” PM Modi said, announcing an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each from the PMNRF for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

The tragic incident occurred around 11.30 am during a crowded ritual at the temple. Kasibugga Sub-Division in-charge DSP Lakshman Rao confirmed that seven people had died and two others sustained injuries.

Reacting to the incident, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said he was deeply anguished by the loss of lives and has directed officials and local representatives to ensure proper relief measures and medical care for the injured.

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh also condoled the loss of lives in a stampede at Venkateswara Temple and said that he has instructed officials to provide immediate assistance to the victims.

Nara Lokesh posted on X, "The stampede at the Kasibugga Venkateswara Temple has caused the deaths of several devotees, plunging us into profound shock. A deep sorrow has gripped us on this Ekadashi day. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. The government is providing better medical treatment to those injured in the stampede. As soon as the information was received, I spoke with the officials, Minister Achchennaidu from the district, and local MLA Gauthu Shirish. I have instructed that immediate assistance be provided to the affected individuals."

The heavy rush of devotees led to overcrowding, resulting in a sudden stampede. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. The entire area is in deep sorrow following the tragedy.