Andhra Pradesh Stampede Tragedy: CM Blames Organisers After 9 Killed at Private Temple Event

Nine people were killed and several others injured in a tragic stampede at the privately owned Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, on Saturday.

The incident occurred during Kartika Ekadashi celebrations when a massive crowd surged inside the temple premises, leading to chaos and a deadly crush. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and blamed the temple organisers for failing to inform local authorities about the large gathering.

“It is extremely painful that innocent people lost their lives in the stampede. The temple was built by a private individual, and due to Kartika Ekadashi, a huge number of devotees gathered there. Unfortunately, the organisers did not inform the police or local administration. Had they done so, proper crowd control measures could have been arranged,” Naidu said.

The Chief Minister announced a probe into the incident and assured strict action against those found responsible. He also directed officials to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured and to provide immediate relief to the victims’ families.

“The government is committed to preventing such tragedies. A detailed inquiry will be conducted, and accountability will be fixed,” Naidu added. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has instructed Jana Sena MLAs and party leaders to visit the accident site and meet the affected families. “The reasons for this incident will be thoroughly examined, and a report will be submitted to me,” he said.

State Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh described the tragedy as “deeply shocking” and said the government was extending all assistance. “Our government is ensuring that the injured receive the best medical care. I’ve spoken to district officials and local representatives to coordinate relief operations,” he posted on X.

According to officials, the stampede took place when devotees rushed toward the sanctum as part of the Ekadashi rituals. The sudden surge led to people being trampled in the crowd. Police and rescue teams reached the site immediately and began relief operations.

State Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu also visited the temple to oversee the situation and coordinate with local authorities. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were sent to their native villages after post-mortem examinations.

Disturbing visuals from the temple premises showed rescue workers and devotees carrying the injured to safety amid the chaos. Officials have said a detailed report on the cause of the stampede and the lapses in crowd management will be submitted to the state government soon.