“During a religious ceremony, the frenzy led to a stampede as devotees witnessed the rituals,” said V.S. Chadonkar, a police officer in Goa’s state capital, Panjim.
An Overview of the Goa Stampede
Chadonkar confirmed eight critical injuries among the victims.
According to Goa State Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, “approximately 80” people were injured.
“Five critical cases are on ventilator support, and the rest are being treated in our specially created emergency ward,” Rane remarked.
This incident occurred on Friday night during the annual Shri Lairai Zatra festival in Shirgao village, which is renowned for events like fire-walking.
Despite a heavy security presence and a 1,000-personnel task force, the stampede still occurred, and its cause remains undetermined.
The exact circumstances of the stampede are yet to be ascertained. However, a police officer, speaking to The Indian Express, indicated it might have been triggered by someone falling on a steep slope near the temple’s access road. Authorities are currently investigating the matter.
Condolences from Political Leaders
Following the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed “condolences to those who lost their loved ones.”
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and has promised all possible support to the families affected.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/india-six-killed-dozens-injured-in-goa-temple-stampede/a-72423999?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
