Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday expressed profound sorrow over the tragic stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. Taking to platform X, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
At least ten devotees, mostly women and children, were killed and several others injured in a stampede at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district earlier Saturday. The stampede occurred amid a heavy rush of devotees at the temple during Ekadashi, an auspicious day for Hindus.
In his message, PM Modi said, “Pained by the stampede in Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon.”
The Prime Minister also announced financial assistance for the victims. “An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000,” the statement added.
The Prime Minister’s timely response underscores the government’s commitment to offering assistance and ensuring the welfare of citizens during such unfortunate events.