PM Modi announces financial aid for victims
A day of devotion turned into a devastating tragedy in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday. A horrific stampede occurred at the famous Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kashibugga, Srikakulam district, resulting in the deaths of at least nine devotees. The incident, which left many others injured, has sent shockwaves across the region, including in neighbouring Odisha.
The Srikakulam temple stampede took place on the auspicious occasion of Ekadashi. A massive crowd of devotees had gathered at the temple since early morning. According to reports, the situation spiralled out of control due to the heavy Ekadashi temple rush, leading to overcrowding and the eventual stampede. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as people, caught in the surge, tried desperately to escape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives. In a post from the PM's office, he said he was "pained" by the incident. He immediately announced financial assistance for the victims' families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) will be given to the next of kin of each person who died. Additionally, Rs. 50,000 will be provided to those injured. "My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon," the PM stated.
This Andhra Pradesh temple tragedy also drew immediate reactions from state leaders. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu called the Venkateswara Swamy Temple incident "extremely heartbreaking" and "shocking." He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. CM Naidu has instructed district officials to ensure speedy and proper medical treatment for all the injured.
Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer and State Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu also expressed their deep condolences. Police and emergency services worked to control the crowd and shift the injured to nearby hospitals. The tragedy has cast a pall of gloom over Srikakulam, a district that borders Odisha and is frequently visited by devotees from South Odisha.
