Tragedy struck the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, on Saturday, resulting in a stampede that claimed the lives of at least ten devotees and left many others injured. The incident occurred during the Kartika Ekadashi festival when a large crowd had gathered at the temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating he was "pained" by the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

In a statement, PM Modi said, "My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon." Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also conveyed his sorrow over the incident, highlighting that the temple is privately owned and the organizers did not inform local authorities about the gathering. He stated, "It is extremely painful that innocent people lost their lives in the stampede. Had they informed us, we would have provided police protection and controlled the crowd."

The Chief Minister has ordered an investigation into the incident and assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible. He emphasized the need for better coordination in future events to prevent such tragedies. CM Naidu instructed local officials to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured and oversee relief operations at the site.

The stampede has raised concerns about safety measures at religious gatherings, especially during large festivals. Eyewitness accounts described a chaotic scene as devotees rushed to enter the temple, leading to overcrowding and the subsequent stampede. Rescue operations were promptly initiated, with the injured being transported to nearby hospitals for emergency care. The situation remains under close monitoring as authorities assess the aftermath of this tragic event.