What Did Rahul Gandhi Say About the Andhra Temple Stampede?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi calls for immediate resources for relief.
- Tragic loss of lives at Kashibugga Temple.
- Importance of crowd management guidelines.
- Congress leaders mobilizing support for the victims.
- Chief Minister directs prompt treatment for the injured.
New Delhi, Nov 1 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha (LoP), Rahul Gandhi, conveyed his profound sorrow regarding the stampede that occurred at the Kashibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least nine devotees.
In a statement on X, he remarked, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the stampede at the Kashibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. My heart goes out to the bereaved families and all those injured. I hope they find strength and recover soon.”
Rahul Gandhi also called upon the Government of Andhra Pradesh to mobilize all necessary resources for relief and to engage with the victims’ families with empathy, dignity, and speed. He encouraged Congress leaders and workers in the area to participate in relief efforts and support the grieving families.
Previously, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his condolences over the loss of life in this unfortunate incident. He stated, “I am deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives in the stampede at the Kashibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost their loved ones, and our thoughts are with the injured.”
Kharge emphasized the necessity of crowd management guidelines, advocating for their strict implementation. He urged the Andhra Pradesh government to provide timely compensation and support to the affected families, advising Congress leaders and workers to extend all possible assistance during this difficult time.
The stampede predominantly affected women and children, who tragically lost their lives amidst the chaos of a large gathering of worshippers.
Disturbing footage from the temple site displayed the bodies of devotees on the ground as rescue teams and locals rushed to assist the injured.
Expressing his shock, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu called the tragedy “heartbreaking.” He stated, “The stampede at the Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, has deeply shocked me. The loss of devotees’ lives in this incident is extremely tragic. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I have instructed officials to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured.”
Furthermore, the Chief Minister directed local authorities and public representatives to visit the site and oversee the relief and rescue operations.