Stampede at Vaishno Devi shrine: 12 dead, PM Modi announces ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for victims’ kin

The stampede at Vaishno Devi shrine, which happened on the first day of the year, where twelve pilgrims have died and over a dozen others injured. The stampede was triggered by a massive rush of devotees, officials said today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is “personally monitoring and keeping track” of the tragic situation, a minister in his office said.

In a statement, Block Medical Officer of Community Health Centre Dr Gopal Dutt said the casualties were from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir. The injured were taken to Naraina hospital after rescue. The police also launched a rescue operation to evacuate the people.

Also Read: Meghalaya SSA teachers vow to carry on stir

DGP of Jammu and Kashmir Police Dilbagh Singh stated that the incident occurred around 2:45 am last night, and as per initial investigation it has come to light that an argument broke out which resulted in people pushing each other which led to the stampede.

The stampede at the Vaishno Devi shrine has led to condolences from several politicians cutting across party lines. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured all possible medical aid and assistance to the injured.

Also Read: Flashback 2021: A look back at what made the news in Northeast

The Prime Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the stampede and Rs 50,000 from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

Taking to Twitter, PMO wrote, “An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to the stampede at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

Union ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, Lieutenant governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have expressed grief at the incident in which 12 people were killed early on Saturday.

“Deeply pained at the loss of lives due to stampede at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. My condolences to the families of the deceased & prayers with the injured,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha tweeted.

Union home minister Amit Shah said he was “deeply pained” by the stampede and had spoken with Sinha regarding the incident. “The administration is working continuously to provide treatment to the injured. I express my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this accident,” Shah said.

“The tragedy due to a stampede at Mata Vaishno Bhawan is heart-wrenching. Anguished by the loss of lives due to it. My condolences to the bereaved families in this sad hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted.

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi also condoled with the bereaved families. “The stampede at Mata Vaishnodevi temple is sad. My condolences to the families of the deceased. Wishing the injured a speedy recovery,” he tweeted.