Srikakulam, Nov 1 (V7N)- At least nine people, mostly women and children, have died in a stampede at the newly built Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, early Saturday. Many others were injured.

Witnesses said the stampede occurred suddenly due to excessive crowding at the temple entrance, leading to multiple fatalities in an instant.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced financial assistance from the National Relief Fund: Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

State Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu described the incident as “heartbreaking,” directed speedy treatment for the injured, and ordered local officials to oversee relief operations. He also announced an investigation into the accident at the temple, which is run by a private authority.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan confirmed that a full investigation would be conducted and assistance provided to affected families.

END/SMA/AJ