Andhra Venkateswara Temple Stampede: Architect Calls Tragedy ‘Act of God’
A deadly stampede at Andhra Pradesh’s revered Venkateswara Swamy Temple during a crowded ritual claimed 12 lives and left dozens injured. The temple’s chief architect, Srinivas Reddy, called the incident an “act of God”—a statement met with anger and demands for accountability.
What Caused the Stampede?
The tragedy unfolded during a rare Abhishekam (ritual bathing) ceremony, drawing thousands of devotees. Witnesses reported:
– A sudden crowd surge near narrow entry points
– Inadequate security to manage the rush
– No barricades to control movement
While officials confirm 12 fatalities, local reports suggest higher casualties, with many critically injured. The state government announced compensation and a high-level probe.
Backlash Over “Act of God” Remark
Trustee Srinivas Reddy, who oversaw the temple’s expansion, faced criticism for attributing the stampede to divine will. Critics argue:
✔ Poor crowd management—No staggered entries or ticketing
✔ Negligent infrastructure—Narrow pathways, no emergency exits
✔ Lack of preparedness—Minimal medical or security personnel
“Blaming God is an excuse to hide mismanagement,” said a local activist.
Authorities Under Fire
The Andhra Pradesh government launched an investigation amid allegations of:
– Underestimating crowd size
– Failure to enforce safety protocols
– Delayed emergency response
This incident echoes past temple stampedes, like the 2013 Madhya Pradesh tragedy (115 dead), raising questions about recurring safety lapses.
Devotees & Leaders Demand Change
Outraged devotees and religious figures are calling for:
🔹 Strict crowd control (e.g., digital passes, timed entries)
🔹 Infrastructure upgrades (wider walkways, CCTV surveillance)
🔹 Crisis training for staff
Hashtags like #VenkateswaraTragedy trended as netizens sought justice.
Next Steps: Will Reform Follow?
Experts urge immediate action to prevent future disasters:
1. Adopt tech solutions (e.g., real-time crowd monitoring).
2. Coordinate with police for large events.
3. Audit high-risk temples nationwide.
As victims’ families mourn, the temple’s response will shape its legacy—divine intervention or overdue accountability?
—Reporting by NextMinuteNews
