Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the stampede at the Sheetla Mata Temple in Nalanda, Bihar. In response to the tragedy, he announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for each family of the deceased. The confirmed death toll has risen to nine, with injured individuals set to receive Rs 50,000 each as compensation.

The Prime Minister expressed his sorrow through a message on the social media platform X, stating, “The mishap in Nalanda district is deeply painful. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Officials Respond to the Incident

In response to the calamity, several officials, including Zonal Inspector General Jitendra Rana, the Patna Divisional Commissioner, and the District Magistrate, visited the temple site on Tuesday. The Sheetla Mata Temple has since been closed, and authorities have begun reviewing CCTV footage to understand the circumstances that led to the incident. Reports indicate that the stampede was triggered by the extreme heat during the temple fair. The event occurred within the jurisdiction of the Dipnagar Police Station.

State Government’s Relief Efforts

Cabinet Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary reported that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is actively monitoring developments related to the incident. Choudhary stated, “Eight people are reported to have died in the temple stampede. The Chief Minister has taken note of the incident, directing officials to carry out all necessary relief operations.” The Chief Minister has announced a comprehensive ex-gratia package totaling Rs 6 lakh for the families of the deceased, consisting of Rs 4 lakh from the Disaster Management Department and Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. The government has also committed to covering the medical expenses for the injured.

Chief Minister’s Statement

In an official press release, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed deep sorrow regarding the losses sustained due to the stampede at the Sheetla Devi Temple in Bihar Sharif, Nalanda district. He described the incident as extremely tragic and noted his distress over the event. Kumar has ordered that a financial grant be made available to the dependents of the deceased, consisting of Rs 4 lakh from the Disaster Management Department and Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. This initiative aims to provide immediate support to those affected by the tragedy. He further expressed his hopes for the quick recovery of injured individuals and has instructed that they receive proper medical care.

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