India has recorded 114 stampede deaths in 2025 so far, marking the second-highest figure in recent years. This grim statistic underscores the recurring issues of poor crowd management, weak communication systems, and inadequate emergency preparedness at large gatherings across the country.

The latest incident occurred at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, where at least 10 people lost their lives during the Ekadashi festival on Saturday. The tragedy unfolded when a large crowd of devotees gathered at the temple, leading to overcrowding and a sudden stampede. Preliminary investigations suggest that an iron grille meant to maintain the queue of worshippers broke, leading to the uncontrolled crowd surge. Eight women and one child were among the deceased. At least 16 devotees injured in the crowd surge are being treated at a local hospital, while 20 others are in a state of shock and put under observation at a different hospital.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief and vowed strict action against those responsible for the deadly stampede and ordered an inquiry into the incident. State authorities clarified that the temple was privately owned and not under government administration, while acknowledging that the crowd size far exceeded the temple's capacity. Police have registered a case against the temple owner, Hari Mukunda Panda, under culpable homicide charges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences and announced financial assistance to the victims' families.

The Venkateswara Swamy Temple stampede is the sixth major such incident in India in 2025. Other major stampedes this year include:

• Mahakumbh Mela, Prayagraj (January 29): 30 devotees died during the religious gathering.
• New Delhi Railway Station (February 15): A stampede claimed 18 lives as passengers headed to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela.
• Lairai Jatra festival, Shirgao, Goa (in February): Seven devotees were killed amid a massive turnout.
• RCB Victory Celebration, Bengaluru (June 4): 11 fans died near Chinnaswamy Stadium during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bangalore's IPL title win.
• TVK Rally, Karur, Tamil Nadu (September 27): At least 39 people died at a rally organized by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay.

In comparison, the year 2024 saw 123 fatalities, largely due to the devastating Hathras crowd crush in Uttar Pradesh, where 116 people died at the conclusion of a religious event.

These recurring tragedies highlight the urgent need for stronger safety protocols at large gatherings. Experts point to factors such as underestimation of crowd sizes, inadequate crowd control measures, poor communication, and insufficient emergency response systems as contributing to these incidents. Some reports indicate a lack of implementation of previously discussed safety measures. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial to prevent future stampedes and ensure the safety of people attending mass gatherings in India.