Stampede at Goa's Lairai Temple: Several Dead, Over 50 Injured in Shirgaon Temple Tragedy

New Delhi: At least six people lost their lives and more than 50 were seriously injured in a stampede that occurred during the annual Lairai Zatra at the Shirgaon temple in Goa ’s Bicholim taluka early Friday morning. The incident unfolded when panic spread among the dense crowd, leading to a sudden rush and chaos near the temple premises.

According to eyewitnesses, the stampede took place as devotees scrambled to escape the packed area, falling over one another. "It became very scary within seconds. People were shouting and trying to get out. Many were trampled," a local resident who witnessed the incident told media.

Rescue Efforts Launched Swiftly

As soon as the authorities were alerted, police and emergency response teams reached the spot. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, with several in critical condition. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the hospital and assured full support to the affected families.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning,” he said in a post on social media platform X. “I visited the hospital to meet the injured and have assured all possible support to the affected families. I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken.”

PM Modi Assures Full Support

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed concern and extended support to the Goa government. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji spoke with me and took detailed stock of the situation, offering his full support during this difficult time,” CM Sawant added.

Initial Findings Point to Overcrowding

Though the exact reason for the stampede has not been officially confirmed, initial reports suggest that overcrowding and inadequate crowd control may have led to the tragedy. The annual Lairai Zatra draws thousands of devotees each year, many of whom gather during the early hours for rituals.

Crowd Control Measures Under Review

In the wake of the incident, the state administration has begun reviewing crowd management protocols for large public events. Authorities have promised a thorough inquiry into the incident to determine lapses and avoid similar mishaps in the future.

The Goa government has also announced that ex-gratia compensation will be provided to the families of those who lost their lives, while the injured will receive full medical assistance at state expense.