TTD Apologizes For Tirupati Stampede, Cites Overcrowding As Cause Of Deaths

TIRUPATI (ANI) – A stampede at Tirupati, which resulted in six fatalities, was caused by “overcrowding,” according to the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Additionally, 40 individuals were injured in the incident and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

BR Naidu, after visiting the Sri Venkateswara Ramnarayan Ruia Government General Hospital in Tirupati, where he met with the injured and consulted with doctors, described the incident as “unfortunate.” He assured the public that a detailed report would be released soon.

Naidu stated, “A total of six people have died. Some victims are from Tamil Nadu, and others from Andhra Pradesh. As of now, one body has been identified, and five remain unaccounted for.”

In response, TTD Board member Bhanu Prakash Reddy expressed his apologies for the tragedy. He confirmed that the trust would conduct an inquiry and take appropriate action. Reddy said, “We opened 91 counters to distribute tokens for ‘Ekadasi Darshan.’ It is unfortunate that this stampede occurred. Six devotees lost their lives, and 40 others were injured. We are providing the best medical care available. This has never happened in TTD history, and I sincerely apologize to the devotees. We will investigate the matter and take serious action.”

The stampede occurred near Vishnu Niwasam, close to the Tirumala Srivari Vaikuntha Dwara ticketing counter, during the distribution of ‘darshan’ tokens.