Varanasi stampede: PM Modi expresses grief, announces ex-gratia

New Delhi:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief at the loss of lives in a stampede in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency, and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of those killed. He also directed officials to ensure all possible help is extended to those affected. "Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the stampede in Varanasi. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with those injured," he tweeted. "I have spoken to officials and asked them to ensure all possible help to those affected due to the stampede in Varanasi," he said in another tweet. Modi sanctioned ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of those killed and Rs 50,000 each to the seriously injured from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Nineteen people were killed and 60 injured in the stampede at Rajghat bridge on the border of Varanasi and Chandauli where a large number of people had gathered for a religious event this afternoon.