Wed Jan 08 18:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Six Pilgrims Die in Stampede at Tirupati Temple
**TIRUPATI, INDIA** – Six pilgrims died and at least 25 others were injured in a stampede at a token distribution center for the Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred at the Bairagipatteda token distribution center.
According to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman B.R. Naidu, the stampede was triggered when a woman pilgrim collapsed, causing a DSP to open the gates. The sudden influx of pilgrims led to the tragic event. The injured are receiving treatment at Ruia and SVIMS hospitals.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu held a teleconference with the TTD chairman expressing his strong displeasure with the officials involved. He reportedly stated that the incident was a result of official failure and demanded preventative measures to avoid similar occurrences. The CM is expected to visit Tirupati on Thursday to offer condolences to the bereaved families and visit the injured. The TTD chairman confirmed that compensation will be provided to the families of the deceased.
The TTD Chairman clarified that the incident was purely accidental and that there was no evidence of foul play. The situation in Tirupati is currently being overseen by the Executive Officer J. Shyama Rao and the Collector Venkateswar.
First Piper 