Stampede in AP: Several feared dead in crush at Venkateswara Temple

AT least seven people have been reportedly killed in a stampede at the Venkateswara Temple in Kashibugga in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam district, multiple media reports said on Saturday.

The stampede was a result of a huge rush of devotees on Ekadashi.

Videos shared on social media showed massive overcrowding on the temple premises, with hundreds of devotees jostling on the temple staircase.

Several bodies were also reportedly seen lying across the temple premises and efforts are underway to identify those who lost their lives.

Police have rushed to the spot and the situation is currently under control.

‘Deep sorrow’ has gripped Andhra Pradesh

Commenting on the tragedy, Andhra Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu called it a “shock”.

“The death of devotees in this tragic incident is extremely heartbreaking. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased,” wrote the CM on X.

“I have instructed the officials to provide speedy and proper treatment to those who have been injured. I have requested the local officials and public representatives to visit the site of the incident and oversee the relief measures,” he added.

Nara Lokesh, Naidu's son and a minister in the Andhra Pradesh government, also expressed his shock.

“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,” Lokesh wrote on X.

“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 minister added.