Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound grief over the tragic stampede near Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, which claimed six lives and left at least 40 injured. The incident occurred during the distribution of tokens for the Vaikuntha Dwara Sarvadarshanam, a special 10-day darshan for devotees beginning Friday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister’s Office stated:
"Pained by the stampede in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon. The AP Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected."
Incident Details
The stampede took place on Wednesday night when a massive crowd gathered to collect tokens for the darshan. Authorities report that the surge of devotees at a counter near MGM school caused chaos, leading to the unfortunate loss of lives. Among the deceased, one has been identified as Mallika, a resident of Tamil Nadu.
#WATCH | Andhra Pradesh: Four people died in a stampede that occurred at Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens.CM N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to officials over the phone about the treatment being provided to the injured in the… pic.twitter.com/655uJ7NEiK— ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2025
The injured are being treated at the Sri Venkateswara Ramnarayan Ruia Government General Hospital in Tirupati. Videos capturing the chaotic moments leading up to the stampede have been widely circulated on social media.
Tirupati Municipal Commissioner Mourya described the situation as peaceful at most token distribution counters except for the one where the stampede occurred.
"Around 4,000 to 5,000 people arrived at the same time. It is truly unfortunate. The situation is now under control," she said.
CM Chandrababu Naidu Responds
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed serious concern over the incident. According to a statement from Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman BR Naidu, the Chief Minister will meet the families of the victims on Thursday at 11:45 a.m.
"This is an unfortunate event where six pilgrims lost their lives. The Chief Minister has expressed dissatisfaction with the management and has warned that such incidents must not recur. He is closely monitoring updates and ensuring support for the affected families," the statement read.
Victims and Public Reaction
Some victims have blamed the TTD and local authorities for mismanagement, citing inadequate crowd control measures.
"This happened due to the incompetence of TTD and the lack of facilities provided by the police and government," a survivor stated on condition of anonymity.
Condolences from Leaders
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also extended his condolences, writing on X:
"Saddened by the unfortunate stampede at Tirupati Temple. Heartfelt condolences to the families who lost dear ones. Pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."
The tragedy has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a spiritual celebration, highlighting the need for stricter crowd management and safety protocols during large religious events.
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