12 devotees killed, many injured in stampede during Ekadashi puja at Srikakulam Venkateshwara temple in Andhra Pradesh. Chaos among women and children, horrifying scene seen in the video. Know how the system broke and what Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said.
Hyderabad. There was panic in Kasibugga of Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh when a stampede broke out at the Venkateswara Swamy temple during Ekadashi puja. At least 12 devotees, mostly women and children, died in this tragic accident. Several others have been seriously injured and have been admitted to nearby hospitals. The incident occurred when thousands of devotees had gathered at the temple premises to offer prayers. The day of Ekadashi is considered very auspicious in Hindu religion, but on this day, amidst reverence, a sudden chaos spread mourning in the entire area.
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Scary scene of chaos outside the temple – who handled the situation?
The videos that came on social media after the incident are heart-wrenching. Hundreds of women carrying puja baskets were seen falling over each other on the stairs, and some devotees became trapped in the stairs. Many became unconscious, and the local people and police immediately tried to bring them out. It took several hours for the police and administration to control the situation. Ambulance and rescue teams reached the spot and took the injured to the hospital. A video showed dead bodies scattered in the temple premises, and an injured woman crying loudly – a scene that would shock anyone.
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The Governor and the Chief Minister expressed grief – whose negligence became the cause of death?
Governor S Abdul Nazeer confirmed the incident and expressed deep condolences. He directed the administration to ensure that the injured get the best medical facilities. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu tweeted, “The incident of stampede at Venkateswara temple is heart-wrenching. The death of devotees is extremely sad.” He ordered the district authorities to immediately start relief work and provide better treatment to all the injured. Meanwhile, his son and Minister of State Nara Lokesh said that he is in “deep shock” and has directed to provide all possible help to the affected families.
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How did the stampede happen? Were the security arrangements inadequate?
According to local sources, during the peak time of morning puja, the crowd suddenly started increasing at the main gate of the temple. Amidst the limited route and the presence of a large number of women and children, suddenly someone fell and created a stampede. The administration says that orders have been given to investigate the incident and action will be taken against the responsible officials.