The stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga town, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh has left a trail of tragedy and medical urgency.
Casualties and Injuries
At least eight women and a boy lost their lives when crowds surged into the temple after the gate was reopened. Many others were injured or had trouble breathing. According to the Health Minister’s office, 11 wounded people are still being treated at Palasa Community Hospital, while 15 patients who recovered were sent home. One patient has been referred to GEMS Hospital in Srikakulam for surgery.
Medical Response
Dr. Satya Kumar Yadav said the Palasa Kidney Research Centre and Super Specialty Hospital gave the best care to those who were admitted. Most of those treated are expected to leave the hospital within three days, with doctors and paramedics closely monitoring their progress.
Compensation for Families
The state and central governments have started paying out compensation. Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu and State Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu handed out Rs 15 lakh checks to families from three villages in Nandigam mandal. In addition, the central government will give Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased person.
Both ministers pledged ongoing support for the grieving families and said they would work to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
Why the Stampede Happened
The tragedy unfolded when a large crowd rushed through the main gate to enter the temple while another group was trying to exit. The timing coincided with Ekadasi and the month of Karthika, which normally attracts huge crowds for religious observances.
Police Investigation
Police have opened a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. They claim the temple is a private establishment that operated without proper approvals, failed to inform local police beforehand, and did not follow basic safety protocols.
Temple Founder’s Statement
Founder Hari Mukund Panda, 94, said he is not responsible for the disaster. He maintained that the devotees rushed in their own accord and that he had not told police because he expected an ordinary day, not a large gathering on Saturday.
Looking Ahead
Officials say the state will take steps to improve crowd control at future events, and investigations continue to determine exactly how the lack of planning contributed to the stampede. The region’s residents and visitors should stay aware of safety warnings during large religious festivals to avoid similar accidents.
Source: ianslive
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