New Delhi: Speaking at an event on Saturday for release of funds to farmers under the PM-KISAN scheme, PM Narendra Modi expressed grief over the unfortunate death of pilgrims in the stampede incident at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir.
PM Modi assured that efforts are being made to provide relief to those injured in the sad incident, PTI reported.
"I express my deep condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones in the stampede at Vaishno Devi Bhawan complex," he said.
PM Modi further said that the Centre is in touch with Jammu and Kashmir administration for relief work.
At least 12 people were killed and 20 others injured in a stampede at the famous Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir triggered by a heavy rush of devotees, officials told PTI on Saturday.
According to a PTI report, the stampede was triggered by a heavy rush of devotees.
Dilbagh Singh, J&K DGP said to ANI, "12 dead, some injured in the stampede at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan in Katra. The incident occurred around 2:45 am, and as per initial reports, an argument broke out which resulted in people pushing each other, followed by stampede."
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF which would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to the stampede at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan in Katra, J&K and the injured would be given Rs. 50,000.
Along with this, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha has announced a compensation of 10 lakhs to the families of those killed in the accident and Rs 2 lakh will be given for the treatment of the injured.