Tirupati Stampede Victims' Families to Receive ₹25 Lakh Aid, Contract Jobs: CM Chandrababu
Six devotees lost their lives in a stampede at the Vaikuntha Dwara darshan token distribution centers in Tirupati. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu visited Tirupati today, where he expressed serious displeasure with the concerned officials. After personally inspecting the incident site, he visited the hospital to console the injured. Following the visit, Chandrababu suspended two senior officials and transferred three others in connection with the incident.
During a press conference held in the evening, Chandrababu announced crucial relief measures. He stated that the families of the deceased would be provided with financial assistance of ₹25 lakh each through the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD). Additionally, he assured that one member from each of the bereaved families would be offered a contract job.
For the two severely injured devotees currently undergoing treatment, Chandrababu announced financial aid of ₹5 lakh each, with a commitment to bear their medical expenses until full recovery. Moreover, he revealed that ₹2 lakh would be provided to each of the 33 other injured individuals. Arrangements are being made for the injured to have a darshan of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala, and measures are in place to send them back to their respective hometowns safely.
Chandrababu remarked that distributing tokens for darshan in Tirupati was an unprecedented practice. He emphasized that when devotees stand in queue lines at Tirumala, they remain immersed in thoughts of the divine. He questioned the rationale behind extending the Vaikuntha Dwara darshan period to ten days, stressing that altering long-standing traditions was unwise. The Chief Minister underlined the importance of following temple customs in accordance with Agama Shastra and assured that strict measures would be implemented to prevent any lapses in temple management across the state.
Highlighting the growing devotion towards Lord Venkateswara, Chandrababu pointed out that more people are keen on visiting the temple during auspicious occasions. He underscored the responsibility of officials in ensuring smooth darshan experiences for devotees during such sacred periods.
Chandrababu stated that the issues that arose over the past four to five years are now being addressed and resolved one by one, including matters related to prasadam distribution, annadanam, and accommodation facilities. He also stated that if there is a need to enhance government or administrative efficiency, necessary improvements will be made.
Addressing concerns about the management of the temple, Chandrababu clarified that Executive Officer Shyamala Rao and TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu should not be held accountable, as they were new to their roles and came from different administrative backgrounds. He remarked that the unique nature of TTD's operations requires officials to consider public sentiments and work accordingly.