Stampede Incident: Chandrababu Expresses Serious Concern, Issues Key Orders

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducted a high-level review meeting for over ninety minutes regarding the stampede incident that occurred last night in Tirupati during the distribution of Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan tokens. According to the preliminary report submitted by the police, the stampede was attributed to administrative lapses. The report further stated that a woman standing in the queue at Bairagipatteda Park fainted, prompting the DSP present at the location to open the gate in an attempt to assist her. The sudden opening of the gate led to the stampede.

In response, Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to take strict action against those responsible for negligence. He ordered the immediate suspension of the negligent officials and instructed that cases be registered against those accountable for the incident. Officials informed the Chief Minister that two cases had already been registered.

Expressing his displeasure, Chandrababu questioned why preventive measures were not taken in advance, despite knowing that a large number of devotees were expected for Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan. He highlighted that even after local journalists alerted the authorities around 5 PM regarding the growing crowd, the officials failed to respond adequately. The Chief Minister criticized the lack of proper planning despite being aware of the possibility of overcrowding.

Chandrababu Naidu ordered a thorough investigation from all angles and emphasized that swift and decisive action must be taken. Following his directions, it is expected that action against some officials will be taken by this evening. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister departed from Amaravati for Tirupati and is expected to reach the location shortly.