Thu Jan 09 19:19:01 UTC 2025: ## Officials Suspended and Transferred Following Tirupati Stampede
**Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh:** Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has announced disciplinary action against several officials following a stampede at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, resulting in six deaths and numerous injuries. A press meet followed a review meeting on the incident.
Naidu suspended DSP Ramana Kumar and Gosala Director Haranath Reddy for negligence of duty. Furthermore, Tirupati SP Subbarayudu, TTD JEO Gautami, and CSO Sridhar were immediately transferred. A judicial inquiry into the incident has also been ordered.
The CM expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and announced financial assistance of ₹25 lakh each through the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Each family will also receive a contract job. Two severely injured individuals will receive ₹5 lakh each, along with coverage of medical expenses until their recovery. The remaining 33 injured will receive ₹2 lakh each. Arrangements are being made for all 35 injured pilgrims to have a darshan of Lord Venkateswara, and assistance will be provided for their return home.
Naidu questioned the recent introduction of ticket systems in Tirupati, stating that it was not a past practice. He also expressed concern over the extension of Vaikuntha Darshan to 10 days, questioning the rationale behind this decision. He emphasized the importance of maintaining traditional temple practices and stated that measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in future.
Naidu stated that he has taken several decisions regarding Tirumala and offered suggestions which will be discussed by the board. He underscored that the temple’s reputation should not be tarnished by administrative shortcomings. He further clarified that politics will not be tolerated in Tirupati.
The government issued transfer orders for SP Subbarayudu and TTD Chief Vigilance Security Officer Sridhar, directing them to report to the DGP office. Similarly, TTD JEO Gautami was transferred to the General Administration Department.
CM Naidu criticized the authorities, suggesting that if the pilgrims had been released in a more controlled manner, half an hour earlier, the tragedy could have been avoided. He alluded to a message about ticket distribution at another location and the subsequent rush as contributing factors to the stampede. A TTD board member has alleged a conspiracy behind the incident, which is currently under investigation.
First Piper 