Andhra temple stampede: CM says, 'no permission sought'
What's the story
A stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, has left at least 10 dead and several injured. The incident took place on Saturday during the Kartika Ekadashi festival. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed his condolences and lamented that no permission was sought from authorities for the event. He said that had they been informed, police protection could have been provided to control the crowd.
Investigation underway
Naidu orders probe into incident
Naidu has ordered a probe into the incident and promised strict action against those responsible. He said, "The government is committed to ensuring that not a single life is lost, but it is very unfortunate that such incidents occur during private programs." The Chief Minister's Office confirmed the stampede was caused by overcrowding on Ekadashi.
Minister's response
State ministers express shock
State Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed shock over the incident. He said immediate medical assistance was being provided to the injured. "Our government is providing the best medical treatment to those injured in the stampede," Lokesh said. State Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu visited the site and spoke with temple authorities to gather details about what happened during this tragic event.
Visuals emerge
Disturbing visuals from the spot
Disturbing visuals from the temple premises showed a massive crowd trying to make their way up when a stampede occurred. Shortly after, devotees were lying motionless on the ground. Rescue operations are underway, and officials said the death toll may rise. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment, and police rushed to the spot.