Wed Jan 08 18:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Tirupati Stampede: CM Condemns TTD Negligence, Death Toll Rises
**Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh:** A tragic stampede at Tirupati’s Venkateswara Temple on Wednesday resulted in a rising death toll, leaving authorities scrambling for answers and facing widespread criticism. The incident occurred amidst the rush for Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan tokens. As of now, at least six people are confirmed dead, with the number expected to rise.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock and anger over the incident, particularly at the apparent negligence on the part of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). He held an emergency teleconference with top officials, including the DGP, TTD EO, District Collector, and SP, expressing strong disapproval of the lack of preparedness despite anticipating large crowds. He questioned why adequate arrangements weren’t made to handle the influx of devotees and emphasized the need for greater vigilance in managing such large gatherings. The CM will visit Tirupati on Thursday to meet with the injured and affected families.
Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed deep concern and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the bereaved families.
The Congress party demanded the resignation of TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu, holding him morally responsible, and called for a compensation of ₹50 lakh each for the victims’ families, along with a job in the TTD for one member of each affected family. TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu admitted to an administrative failure and pledged improved future planning. He stated that the CM will announce compensation on Thursday.
The news of the stampede comes amidst other unrelated events, including confirmation that reports about the cancellation of Andhra Pradesh Inter first-year exams are false, and approval by the Telangana government to increase ticket prices for “Game Changer” benefit shows. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed his condolences regarding the stampede.
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