Overview
- The Governor confirmed nine deaths at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, while the district collector told PTI the toll was 10 with seven dying on the spot and three in hospital.
- The crush occurred around 11:30 am during Ekadashi rituals as thousands gathered at the Srikakulam district shrine, with several devotees rushed to nearby hospitals.
- Officials blamed overcrowding during the festival, while Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha said a railing gave way as devotees climbed toward the first-floor temple area.
- Reporting highlights crowd-management lapses at the privately managed shrine, including a single entry-exit route, ongoing construction at the assembly area, and a gathering held without formal approvals.
- Rescue teams and police deployed additional forces, an inquiry was ordered, and the Prime Minister announced ex-gratia payments of Rs 2 lakh for the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.