At least nine devotees lost their lives and several others were injured in a tragic stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kashibugga, Andhra Pradesh, on the occasion of Karthika Ekadashi — one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. The stampede reportedly occurred when a massive crowd surged toward the temple entrance during morning prayers, leading to chaos and panic.
Eyewitnesses said that the sudden rush left many people trapped in narrow passages, with authorities struggling to restore order. Rescue operations were launched immediately, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals. Officials confirmed that over 25 people sustained injuries, some of them critical.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, calling it “extremely painful.” He announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. “My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” PM Modi said.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also called it a “heartbreaking tragedy” and directed officials to provide immediate relief and medical assistance. He ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident and assured that those responsible for any negligence would face strict action.
The state government, along with the police and disaster response teams, has set up emergency helplines and suspended further temple activities to prevent overcrowding. The tragic incident has reignited calls for stronger crowd management at major religious gatherings across India.
