9 Dead, 18 Injured in Stampede at Hindu Temple in India

At least nine people were killed and 18 others injured in a stampede at a packed Hindu temple in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh early Saturday, according to local officials.

The incident occurred at the Shri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam during a major religious observance that drew tens of thousands of devotees. State Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said the tragedy took place as crowds surged toward the temple, overwhelming capacity and leading to chaos.

Kalyan confirmed that the shrine is privately managed and that a full investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the stampede and identify any lapses in crowd control.

Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy stated that around 25,000 worshippers had gathered at the temple, which can accommodate only about 2,000 people, resulting in severe overcrowding.

A senior district official reported that 18 people were injured, including two in critical condition who are being treated at a local hospital. Emergency services remain on site to assist with rescue operations and maintain order.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), announcing that the central government would provide 200,000 rupees (about $2,300) in compensation to the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees (about $570) to the injured.