Delhi, 1 November (H.S.): Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan, has expressed his profound sorrow over the tragic stampede that claimed multiple lives at the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh on Saturday.

The disastrous incident took place at Kashibugga as a large number of devotees gathered to mark the auspicious occasion of Ekadashi during the sacred month of Karthika masam. The day also coincided with Andhra Pradesh Formation Day, a state holiday.

Overcrowding at the temple, which reportedly opened just four months ago, is believed to have led to the stampede that resulted in at least nine deaths and numerous injuries.

In a statement, the Vice-President described the loss of lives as extremely distressing and said he was deeply pained by the tragedy.He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and offered his prayers for the swift recovery of those injured.

The Vice-President's office also shared his message on the social media platform X, stating, Deeply pained by the tragic stampede at the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple at Kashibugga in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. The loss of lives in this unfortunate incident is extremely distressing. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar