Thu Jan 09 08:04:06 UTC 2025: **Tirupati Stampede: Government Announces Compensation, Tightened Security for Vaikuntha Ekadasi**
TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh – The Andhra Pradesh government has announced compensation of ₹25 lakh each to the families of six pilgrims who died in a stampede at Tirumala on Monday. The stampede occurred during the distribution of Vaikuntha Dwar Darshan tokens. An additional 48 pilgrims sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at Ruia and SVIMS hospitals.
Minister Ananga Satya Prasad confirmed the ex-gratia payment. A case has been registered under section 194 BNS at East PS following a complaint filed by the Narayanavanam Tahsildar.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has responded to the tragedy by implementing heightened security measures ahead of Vaikuntha Ekadasi on Friday. The TTD has undertaken extensive preparations, including enhanced lighting and electrical systems, and floral decorations throughout the temple complex. The temple will open early Friday morning for special pujas and abhishekam before opening to the public at 4:30 AM. Only those with tokens will be allowed darshan. The TTD has also urged devotees to wear masks due to the spread of HMPV across the country.
First Piper 