Fri Jan 10 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Tirupati Temple Stampede Kills Six, Injures Dozens
**TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh** – A stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala Hills on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of six people and injuries to at least 40 others. The incident occurred during the distribution of tokens for the Vaikunta Dwara Darshan, a highly anticipated religious event.
The stampede erupted when a large crowd of devotees surged forward after a staff member fell ill, leading officials to open a queue for his evacuation. Devotees mistook this for the start of token distribution, triggering the chaos. Eyewitnesses reported inadequate security measures and a lack of police presence at the queue lines.
The deceased include five women and one man, all residents of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Videos of police performing CPR and injured devotees being transported to hospitals circulated widely on social media.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and stated that the Andhra Pradesh government is providing assistance to those affected. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu also ordered officials to the scene and ensured medical treatment for the injured. YSRCP President and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed his sorrow and urged authorities to restore order and provide medical care.
The incident is under investigation, with allegations of insufficient security measures being raised. The tragedy highlights the need for improved crowd management and safety protocols at religious events drawing large crowds.
First Piper 