Thu Jan 09 14:07:47 UTC 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Minister Urges Against Politicizing Tirupati Stampede**
NELLORE, Andhra Pradesh – Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy has appealed for an end to the politicization of the Tirupati stampede, which resulted in six deaths and 29 injuries on Wednesday. The incident occurred during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Darshan tokens at the world-famous temple.
Following the tragedy, several leaders from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) criticized the state government and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) for alleged mismanagement. However, Minister Reddy urged restraint, stating that this is not a time for political point-scoring. He called on all parties to focus on supporting the victims and their families instead of engaging in partisan blame.
Reddy highlighted the widespread shock expressed by national and state leaders, including the Prime Minister and Chief Minister, and appealed for unity during this difficult time. He specifically requested opposition parties to offer constructive suggestions for relief efforts rather than engaging in political rhetoric.
This appeal follows earlier accusations from YSRCP leaders, including former Endowments Minister V. Srinivas, who blamed the NDA government for negligence, and former TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, who criticized the lack of coordination between the government and TTD staff.
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