Tue Feb 25 14:21:30 UTC 2025: ## Tirumala Temple Denies Stampede in Boy’s Death
**TIRUMALA, February 25, 2025** – The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has strongly refuted reports that a 16-year-old boy died in a stampede at the Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasadam Bhavanam (MTVAC). TTD Additional Executive Officer Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary stated that the boy, Manjunatha from Madikeri, Karnataka, collapsed while running on a ramp due to a pre-existing heart condition.
Chowdary clarified that while Manjunatha received immediate CPR and was transported to hospitals in Tirupati, he ultimately succumbed to his illness. The boy had a history of heart disease, a fact confirmed by his father, who requested the release of the body without an autopsy. CCTV footage, according to Chowdary, refutes claims of a stampede, showing Manjunatha collapsing independently. Over 3,000 CCTV cameras monitor Tirumala, he added.
The TTD expressed concern over the dissemination of false information by a news channel, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting to avoid harming devotees’ sentiments and damaging the temple’s image. The officials urged media outlets to verify information before publication.
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