At least six people, including two women, died and over 70 were injured in a stampede during a temple festival in Shirgao village, North Goa, early Saturday morning.
The stampede happened around 3 am at the Sree Lairai Devi temple, where nearly 30,000 to 40,000 devotees had gathered. Some people standing on a slope fell, causing others to tumble and creating panic.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the site and met the injured at the hospital. He ordered an inquiry and promised the report would be made public. He also said the government would ensure better safety for all future temple festivals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness over the incident and said the local administration was helping those affected.
Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said about 80 people were injured. Thirteen are being treated at Goa Medical College, with five in critical condition. Others were treated at hospitals in Mapusa, Bicholim, and Sankhali. Ambulances and emergency services responded quickly, and a helpline (104) is active.
The opposition Congress party and the Trinamool Congress (AITC) demanded strict action and better crowd control. The Goa Forward Party blamed police and the local administration, asking for Rs 1 crore as compensation for each victim’s family.
The festival, known as Lairai Zatra, attracts thousands of devotees every year from Goa and neighboring states.
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