At least six people were killed and dozens were injured in a stampede at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred as devotees gathered in large numbers to receive tokens for the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival. The Chief Minister has ordered an inquiry into the incident and will visit the temple on Thursday to announce ex-gratia for the families of the deceased.
Tragic Stampede at Tirupati Temple Leaves Six Dead
Background:
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Every year, millions of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings from Lord Venkateswara. The Vaikunta Ekadasi festival, held annually in December or January, attracts particularly large crowds.
The Stampede:
On December 16, 2023, a stampede occurred at the TTD temple as devotees gathered in large numbers to receive tokens for the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival. According to reports, the situation became chaotic as the crowd surge intensified.
Casualties and Injuries:
The stampede resulted in the tragic deaths of six people, including a woman and a child. Dozens more were injured and taken to nearby hospitals. The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and ordered an inquiry into the incident.
Prime Minister's Response:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the stampede and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He also directed the state government to provide all necessary assistance to the injured.
Investigation and Compensation:
The Andhra Pradesh government has formed a high-level committee to investigate the incident. The Chief Minister will visit the temple on Thursday to announce ex-gratia payments for the families of the deceased.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. What caused the stampede? The exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation. However, large crowds, inadequate crowd control, and the narrow passages within the temple are believed to have contributed to the incident.
2. What steps are being taken to prevent future incidents? The TTD authorities have announced several measures, including improving crowd management, widening passages, and increasing the number of security personnel.
3. What is Vaikunta Ekadasi? Vaikunta Ekadasi is a Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the celestial Vaikunta Ekadasi period, a time when Lord Vishnu is believed to reside in Vaikuntam, his heavenly abode.
4. How can I visit the TTD temple safely? To ensure a safe pilgrimage, it is recommended to book darshan tickets in advance, avoid crowded times, and follow the instructions of the temple authorities.
5. What are other notable stampedes that have occurred at the TTD temple? In 1992, a stampede at the temple during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival killed 28 people. In 2016, a stampede during the Brahmotsavam festival left two people dead and several injured.
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