Lokesh says rush of devotees was unexpected

Minister for Information Technology and RTGS Nara Lokesh has said the unexpected turnout at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple that led to the tragic stampede can be attributed to the social media exposure given to some temples and also the free bus scheme that was introduced by the State government.

Speaking to media at the Kasibugga CHC, after interacting with the patients being treated there, along with Home Minister V Anitha and others, Mr Lokesh stressed the need of formulating a standard operating procedure (SOP) to be followed for crowd management and others at the temples. When pointed out that social media posts have been resulting in unexpected rush at temples like Vadapalli Venkateswara Swamy temple, the Minister said not just social media posts but the devotees are availing free bus facility provided by the government to visit temples.

Mr. Lokesh, quoting the eye-witnesses and injured, said majority of those who visited the temple are first timers to the place. “Nine out of 10 have visited the temple for the first time on Saturday. The local police, administration or the temple management had no idea that such a huge devotee turnout will be there,” he said.

Mr. Lokesh said there were no CCTVs in the temple and as per the eyewitnesses, the temple gates generally close at 12 noon and as time was nearing, devotees started to rush towards the entrance. Those coming out from the temple fell on them resulting in the stampede.

He said the barricades should be of six inches but only two-and-half inches barricades were erected. Mr Lokesh said the State government had decided to give ₹15 lakh as compensation for the family of the deceased and would also monitor the injured till their health condition improves completely.

The Centre has also announced ₹2 lakh compensation to the deceased, Mr. Lokesh said and added that three of the deceased are TDP activists and they will get ₹5 lakh insurance cover provided by the party.

On the temple owner being arrested, the Minister said since an incident of such a magnitude had happened, the police are questioning Hari Mukund Panda, the priests and others. “The temple was constructed over a period of time and we want to ascertain what was used and other aspect of the construction,” he said and added they will decide on taking any action at a later stage.