Wed Jan 08 18:00:00 UTC 2025: **Tirumala Stampede: Administrative Lapses Blamed**
TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh – A stampede at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival, resulting in six deaths, was likely caused by administrative failures, according to TTD Board Chairman B.R. Naidu. The incident occurred on January 8th at token distribution centers, where crowds surged forward.
Naidu expressed deep regret over the tragedy, stating that the deaths were preventable. He revealed that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed strong displeasure with officials during a teleconference, suggesting a lapse in administration. Naidu had reportedly warned officials on Tuesday about the potential for disturbances, even after being assured that 5,000 police personnel were deployed.
The stampede, according to Naidu, was triggered when a DSP opened gates to allow a woman who had fallen ill to be taken out of a crowded token distribution center. This prompted a sudden rush forward from the large crowd, resulting in the tragic loss of life. An investigation into the incident and the alleged administrative failures is expected.
First Piper 