Six people were killed and over 50 injured in a tragic stampede during the annual Lairai Devi Jatra at the Shirgaon temple in Goa. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the Goa Medical College (GMC), where several of the injured are being treated, and confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had personally called to offer central assistance.
“This is an unfortunate incident. More than 50,000 people participate in the Jatra each year. PM Modi called and assured support from the Centre,” Sawant said, adding that an investigation led by the SP North and the district Collector is currently underway. As a mark of respect, the state government has cancelled all official programs for the next three days.
Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane detailed the emergency response measures on social media, stating that dedicated ICUs and nodal officers have been appointed at GMC and Asilo hospitals. “A total of 30 casualties have been reported. Of these, 8 are critical, 4 were brought dead, and others are being treated for varying degrees of injuries,” he said.
Health services are on high alert, and ambulance services have been mobilized to ensure timely medical care. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have pledged ongoing support for the victims and their families.