At least 12 dead, 13 injured: New Year’s prayers took a tragic turn at a religious shrine in Indian Kashmir on Saturday, December 31. In question, a stampede in Mata Vaishno Devi, one of the most frequented Hindu shrines in northern India. About 100,000 worshipers were going there every day before the coronavirus pandemic. This figure had since been limited to 25,000 by the authorities.
“The toll could be heavier, a government official told Agence France-Presse on condition of anonymity, because the road leading to the sanctuary located at the top of a hill was crowded with faithful who tried to get there during the traditional New Year’s prayers ”, he added. Another official in charge of disaster management confirmed the death toll, adding that the stampede took place around 2:45 a.m. local time. “An investigation into the crushing incident at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been requested by the government”, he assured.
Narendra Modi’s condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to himself “Extremely saddened by the loss of human life”, specifying that he is in contact with the local authorities. He also presented his “Condolences to the bereaved families” on Twitter and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The government minister, Jitendra Singh, announced that he was going there to take stock of the situation.
According to local media, witnesses said the 25,000-person-per-day mark was exceeded and groups entered without permission. Other media have reported on an argument that allegedly erupted between worshipers.
Rescue operations began quickly and the injured, some of whom are believed to be in serious condition, were taken to hospital. Videos posted on social networks show ambulances equipped with flashing lights heading to hospitals while it is still dark.
The 24-hour shrine is located in the Katra Hills, about 30 kilometers from Jammu City.