Tirupati: In the wake of the tragic stampede at Tirupati Balaji Temple that claimed six lives and left 40 injured, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu visited the site on Thursday to assess the situation. The incident occurred during the Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations at Vishnu Nivasam, a temple accommodation facility, leading to chaos among the thousands of devotees present.
Following the tragedy, the state government announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹25 lakh for the families of the deceased. Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad said, “We cannot replace the lost lives, but we will support the families. The government stands by the victims during this difficult time.”
The incident has sparked political tensions, with opposition leaders blaming the state administration for mismanagement. Former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman Bhuma Karunakar Reddy criticized the government, calling the stampede an outcome of administrative failure.
Reddy questioned the inadequate arrangements made for Vaikuntha Ekadashi Darshan, despite the anticipated massive turnout. “The ruling party has turned TTD into a political hub, ignoring the welfare of devotees and compromising the sanctity of Lord Venkateswara’s temple,” he said.
The state government has ordered an inquiry into the incident to identify lapses and ensure accountability. Meanwhile, the injured are receiving treatment at local hospitals, and the administration is working to restore normalcy in the temple area.
