Trichy, April 21: At least seven devotees were killed in a stampede during a local temple festival at Karuppasamy temple in Muthayampalayam village near Thuraiyur in Trichy. Ten others were also injured in the incident. All the injured were admitted to the government hospital in Thuraiyur. According to reports, the tragedy occurred when hundreds of people gathered for the 'padikasu' (temple coin) distribution ceremony. Stampede-Like Situation at BJP's Thakurnagar Rally, PM Narendra Modi Cuts Short Speech.

The ceremony was held as part of annual 'Chithira Pournami' festival, at the 'Karuppasamy' (a rural deity) temple in Muthiampalayam village. Distribution of the coins is the main event of the festival, which draws a large number of devotees from in and around the village. Devotees believe keeping the temple coins at home in their cash box will bring prosperity. Howrah: Stampede on Foot-Overbridge at Santragachi Station, Two Dead, Dozen Injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish over the loss of lives in a stampede at a temple in Trichy. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the victims. PM Modi tweeted, “Saddened by the loss of lives due to the stampede at a temple in Thuraiyur, Trichy. My condolences to the families of those who passed away and prayers with the injured. All possible help is being extended by the authorities.” Kumbh Mela 2019: Over Dozen People Reportedly Injured in Stampede at Mega Event in Prayagraj.

PM Modi's Tweet:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami also expressed grief over the tragedy.  Palaniswami ordered compensation to families of victims who lost their lives in the incident and Rs 50,000 to the injured. Meanwhile, district authorities have initiated a probe into the matter.

(With inputs from PTI)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 21, 2019 11:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).