Don’t politicise Tirupati stampede incident, says Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister Ramanarayana Reddy

It is unfortunate that some political parties are using the incident to gain political mileage, he says, adding that this is the time to stand by those who lost their loved ones

Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy has appealed to the political parties and leaders not to politicise the Tirupati stampede issue.

Six pilgrims died and 29 others injured during the issue of the Vaikunta Dwara Darshan tokens on Wednesday night.

Reacting to the incident, several YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders blamed the State government and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) for the “mismanagement” at the world-famous temple.

Responding to their criticism, Mr. Ramanarayana Reddy said, “The country’s Prime Minister, the State Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, and many other leaders are deeply shocked. I request everyone to stand by those who have lost their loved ones in the stampede.”

“This is not the time to play politics. It is unfortunate that some political parties are using the incident to gain political mileage. Let’s talk about politics in some other context. In such a difficult situation, talking about politics is not the right thing,” the Minister said, urging the leaders from other political parties to give any advice on the medical facilities being provided to the victims.

He further said, “Avoid politics at such a time and cooperate with the government and the doctors who are providing medical assistance to the persons injured. At this time, the opposition parties are personally requested to make suggestions for the relief measures being taken up by the government and refrain from indulging in politics.”

Earlier, YSRCP leader and former Minister for Endowments V. Srinivas alleged that the negligence of the NDA government led to the stampede. Former TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy criticised the government and the TTD staff for lack of coordination among them in ensuring safety of the devotees.

Published - January 09, 2025 07:37 pm IST