Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu blames lack of coordination for Srikakulam temple stampede, orders inquiry
PTC Web Desk: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has expressed deep grief over the tragic stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in the Kasibugga area of Srikakulam district, which left over 10 dead and several others injured on Saturday.
Speaking at an event in Sri Sathya Sai district, the Chief Minister said the temple was privately built and the organisers had failed to inform the authorities about the Kartika Ekadashi event. “It is heartbreaking that innocent devotees lost their lives in this unfortunate stampede. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The Venkateswara temple at Kashi Bugga was constructed by a private individual, and due to Kartika Ekadashi, a large crowd had gathered there. However, the organisers did not notify the police or local administration. Had they informed us, proper arrangements and police deployment could have been made to control the crowd. Due to this lack of coordination, over 10 persons lost their lives and five others were injured,” he said.
CM Naidu announced that a detailed inquiry would be conducted into the incident and assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible. “The government is committed to ensuring that no life is lost in such events. It is extremely unfortunate that tragedies like this occur during private gatherings. A comprehensive probe will be launched, and necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future,” he added.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister had issued a statement expressing his condolences and directed the local authorities to visit the site, oversee rescue operations, and ensure the best medical care for the injured. “The loss of lives in this incident is deeply saddening. I have instructed officials to monitor relief operations and asked public representatives to support the victims’ families,” he said.
- With inputs from agencies
