Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed deep condolences over the tragic loss of six lives, including individuals from Tamil Nadu, in a stampede that occurred in Tirupati on Wednesday evening. The incident also left several others injured as devotees gathered to obtain ‘darshan’ tokens near Vishnu Nivasam in Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, CM Stalin said, “The heartbreaking news of six people, including from Tamil Nadu, losing their lives in a stampede in Tirupati is deeply saddening. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident. I sincerely hope that those injured in the stampede recover quickly and completely.”
The stampede occurred near Vishnu Niwasam, close to the Tirumala Srivari Vaikuntha Dwara ticketing counter, as a large crowd gathered for the distribution of ‘darshan’ tokens, according to officials from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The incident has drawn widespread attention, with officials urging better crowd management at such significant religious events. The TTD, which oversees the administration of the Tirumala temple, is reportedly investigating the cause of the stampede and planning measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the region, with many expressing concerns over the safety and organization of devotees during peak times.