After a stampede broke out at a temple in Rajasthan, three persons were killed and several others were wounded. The incident was alleged to have occurred at a monthly fair at the temple in Sikar, around 115 kilometers from the state capital of Jaipur.


The incident was reported on Monday morning at the Khatu Shyamji Temple in Sikar, according to news agency ANI. Two persons out of those hurt were taken to a hospital in the state capital.


Expressing grief over the stampede, PM Modi said, "Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede at the Khatu Shyamji Temple complex in Sikar, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray that those who are injured recover at the earliest."






Calling the incident "unfortunate," Rajasthan CM Ashok Ghelot said: "The demise of three women is unfortunate. My condolences to the bereaved families. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured devotees."

 

Later, Gehlot announced to provide an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the families of those killed, and and Rs 20,000 for those who were wounded in the stampede.

 

"SHO suspended after stampede kills three women at temple in Rajasthan's Sikar," a police official was quoted by PTI on its official Twitter handle. 




According to police, the situation has been brought under control.


Fairs are frequent at temples around the country during the month of Saawan (monsoon) in the Hindu calendar, where enormous crowds are generally seen. Crowds have increased this year as limitations imposed due to the pandemic have been relaxed.


The Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir in the Sikar district is believed to be a popular pilgrimage site in the state. According to common belief, devotees worship at the shrine to get their woes eliminated.


The temple is also regarded as an architectural masterpiece.


(With Inputs From ANI)