Nine devotees were killed in a stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga. The incident occurred when a massive number of people had arrived at the temple to celebrate Ekadashi. Several others sustained grievous injuries and were admitted to various nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities said all nine victims who died were women.
Rescue operations are continuing in the temple premises. The officials are busy controlling the situation and taking care of the affected people. Casualties may rise as some injured people are in critical condition.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound sorrow over the incident. He termed the incident at Kasibugga Venkateswara Swamy temple in Srikakulam district as deeply distressing. “It is very unfortunate that devotees lost their lives. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased,” he said.
The Chief Minister asked officials to ensure the injured get immediate medical attention, apart from ordering the local administration and public representatives to visit the site and supervise the relief and rescue operations.
The Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga was built by trustee Harimukund Panda. The construction started four years ago on a 12-acre plot belonging to the trustee. The temple, with an estimated cost of about ₹20 crore, is now completed. The visits by devotees started in May this year and massive congregations have been a common sight, particularly on Saturdays.
