India records 114 stampede deaths in 2025 so far, second-highest in recent years

At least 10 people were killed and many others were injured in the stampede at the Kashibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday morning. The incident occurred on Saturday as a large crowd gathered at the temple on the occasion of Ekadashi. The heavy rush of devotees led to overcrowding, resulting in a sudden stampede. With this India has recorded at least 114 deaths from stampedes so far this year — the second-highest figure in recent times. In comparison, 2024 saw 123 fatalities, largely due to the devastating Hathras crowd crush in Uttar Pradesh, where 116 people died at the conclusion of a satsang led by self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari.

The Venkateswara Swamy Temple stampede in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district marked the sixth such incident in 2025, highlighting once again the recurring issues of poor crowd management, weak communication systems, and inadequate emergency preparedness. Officials often underestimate turnout, resulting in overcrowding and panic.

This year has already witnessed several major tragedies:

• January 29: 30 devotees lost their lives during the Mahakumbh.
  
  
• February 15: A stampede at New Delhi Railway Station claimed 18 lives.
  
  
• In Shirgao village, North Goa, seven devotees were killed amid a massive turnout for the Lairai Jatra festival.
  
  
• June 4: 11 fans died and dozens were injured near Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, during celebrations of RCB’s first IPL title.
  
  

The most recent disaster unfolded in Karur, Tamil Nadu, where at least 39 people died at a rally organised by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay, once again underscoring the urgent need for stronger safety protocols at large gatherings.