Andhra Pradesh Srikakulam Temple Stampede: Several Feared Dead During Ekadashi Rush

Kasibugga, AP: Several are feared dead after a stampede-like situation during Ekadashi celebrations happened at the Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district on Saturday. According to

officials, the tragedy unfolded when a large crowd of worshippers thronged the temple premises early in the morning. The sudden surge of devotees led to overcrowding near the sanctum, resulting in chaos and a stampede-like situation. Eyewitnesses said panic spread quickly as people struggled to move to safety amid the crush of the crowd.Police personnel were immediately rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control, while the injured were swiftly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.In an official statement, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said, “A stampede took place at the Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred as a large crowd gathered at the temple on the occasion of Ekadashi. The heavy rush of devotees led to overcrowding, resulting in a sudden stampede. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Police rushed to the spot.”The statement further confirmed that State Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu visited the site soon after the incident to assess the situation. “State Agriculture Minister K Atchannaidu rushed to the accident site immediately. He spoke with the temple authorities to gather details about the incident. Additional police forces have been deployed to the spot,” the CMO added.Authorities have since restored order at the temple, and an inquiry into the cause of the overcrowding has been initiated. Further details on the incident like death toll are awaited.