Key Points:
- Stampede Tragedy: Six devotees lost their lives, and over 30 were injured in a stampede during token distribution for the Vaikuntha Dwara Sarva Darshan in Tirupati.
- Mismanagement Alleged: Devotees criticized the chaotic token distribution process, blaming it for the tragedy.
- CM Naidu’s Response: Andhra Pradesh CM expressed grief, directed officials to ensure the injured receive the best care.
- Vaikuntha Darshan’s Significance: The annual event attracts lakhs of devotees, eager to witness the divine gates of heaven.
Amaravati: A day of divine devotion turned tragic as six devotees were killed and over 30 injured in a stampede during the issuance of Vaikuntha Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens for the Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday evening, has raised serious concerns about crowd management during one of the temple’s busiest events.
How the Chaos Unfolded
The stampede occurred around 8 pm as Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) officials began distributing tokens at major centers, including Vishnu Nivasam, Srinivasam, and Padmavati Park. Thousands of devotees, who had been waiting since morning, surged forward when the gates were briefly opened to allow an unwell devotee to exit the queue.
The resulting rush caused severe overcrowding, leading to stampedes at two locations. Tragically, one devotee, Mallika from Salem in Tamil Nadu, succumbed to injuries while being taken to Ruia Hospital. Three others passed away during treatment at the same hospital.
Devotees Voice Anger Over Mismanagement
Survivors and witnesses blamed the tragedy on poor planning and execution of the token distribution process. A devotee at Padmavati Park criticized the TTD, saying:
“This tragedy could have been averted with better management. Such a chaotic system should not have been implemented, especially after the Covid-19 hiatus.”
The Vaikuntha Dwara Sarva Darshan holds immense significance for devotees, as it offers them a rare opportunity to witness the symbolic gates of heaven (Vaikuntha) during the Vaikuntha Ekadasi festival.
Overwhelmed System Amid Surging Crowds
With an expected turnout of over 2-3 lakh devotees, the TTD had planned to distribute tokens through 94 counters at nine centers. However, the overwhelming influx of devotees stretched the system beyond its limits, leading to unmanageable crowding and eventual disaster.
Government’s Response
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his grief over the incident, extending condolences to the bereaved families. He stated that he was in constant touch with district officials and the TTD, ensuring that the injured were provided the best medical care.
Senior officials were directed to visit the scene and assess the situation to prevent such incidents in the future.
The stampede in Tirupati serves as a grim reminder of the challenges in managing large religious gatherings. As lakhs of devotees prepare for the upcoming Vaikuntha Ekadasi celebrations, authorities must take urgent steps to improve crowd control measures and ensure the safety of devotees during this sacred event.
