Thu Jan 09 18:32:16 UTC 2025: ## Tirupati Stampede Kills Six, Injures Dozens During Token Distribution

**TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh (Jan 9, 2025)** – A tragic stampede at a token distribution center in Tirupati left six pilgrims dead and 48 injured on Wednesday. The incident occurred near the TTD MGM school in Bairagipatteda, where devotees had gathered to obtain tokens for the highly sought-after Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.

According to officials, the stampede resulted from an unexpectedly large number of pilgrims arriving to secure tokens for the Sankranti festival. A lack of coordination between police and TTD officials during the release of tokens is being cited as a contributing factor. The resulting crush injured dozens and tragically claimed the lives of six, including five women.

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock and grief, announcing a judicial inquiry into the incident. He also announced compensation of ₹25 lakh each for the families of the deceased. Naidu suspended DSP Ramana Kumar and Gosala in-charge Harinath Reddy for negligence, and ordered the transfer of Chief Security Officer Sridhar and SP Subbarayudu.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan issued a statement expressing regret and calling for an overhaul of TTD procedures to better manage crowds during peak seasons. He suggested that TTD members should visit the families of the victims to offer apologies. He also hinted at internal conflicts within the TTD administration as a potential factor contributing to the inadequate crowd management.

Former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy visited the injured pilgrims at SVIMS hospital, questioning the lack of sufficient security protocols despite expecting large crowds.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Several politicians have expressed their condolences and demanded stringent action against those responsible for the lapses in security. The police have registered cases under section 194 of the BNS Act against those held responsible for negligence. The TTD continues to issue tokens for Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam despite the tragedy, although they are taking steps to improve crowd management. A control room has been set up (08772236007) to provide information about injured pilgrims. Condolence messages have poured in from across India, including from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

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