Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati-A tragic stampede occurred late Wednesday evening near the Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan ticketing center in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The chaos unfolded as hundreds of devotees rushed to obtain tokens for the 10-day Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam, scheduled to commence on January 10.
The stampede claimed the lives of six devotees, with several others injured. The injured were promptly taken to Sri Venkateswara Ramnarayan Ruia Government General Hospital for treatment.
Victim’s Family Speaks Out
One of the deceased, Mallika, was identified by her husband, who shared, “While my wife and others were trying to obtain Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan tickets, a stampede occurred, resulting in her death. I have informed our relatives, and they are on their way.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Expressing his sorrow, PM Modi shared on X, “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.”
TTD Chairman BR Naidu: In a press conference, he stated, “It is an unfortunate event, 6 pilgrims lost their lives. The incident was purely an accident.” He added that the Chief Minister is closely monitoring the situation.
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu held a high-level review meeting with senior officials, including the DGP, TTD EO, district collector, and SP. Expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of preventive measures, he emphasized the importance of vigilance during large gatherings. The CM directed officials to reassess token distribution management and enhance security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
CM Chandrababu Naidu will visit the affected families and the injured tomorrow morning at 11:45 am.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his grief, stating, “The tragic stampede in Tirupati is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Wishing a swift recovery to all those injured. I urge Congress leaders and workers to provide all possible assistance during this difficult time.”
Authorities are working to identify the victims, and the Chief Minister has assured stringent measures to prevent similar incidents. A thorough review of security arrangements and crowd management at religious events is underway.
Author: VS NEWS DESK
pradeep blr
