The founder of the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh, has sparked outrage with his remarks following Saturday’s deadly stampede that killed nine people. Instead of accepting responsibility, Panda blamed the tragedy on the large Ekadashi turnout, saying, “nothing we could do.”

'How am I at fault?': Andhra temple founder denies poor management concerns, blames devotees for stampede that killed 9

The event was organised for Ekadashi (A Hindu event celebrated for lord Vishnu). The organisers did not inform the state administration that a large gathering was about to take place at the temple.

Andhra temple tragedy: Reaction, arrest, causes - all you need to know

The police rushed to the spot to control the situation, and additional police personnel have been deployed at the scene. The authorities are reviewing and monitoring the situation. 

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Women with puja baskets in hand can be seen jostling in the crowd and screaming for help in the corridors of the Venkateswara Swamy temple to move to open spaces.

VIDEO: Packed corridor, loud screams describe scenes at Venkateswara Temple before stampede

At least nine people were killed and several others were injured in a stampede during the Thokkilata ritual at the Kasibugga Venkateswara Swamy temple in Srikakulam district on Saturday (Nov 1).

At least 10 killed, several injured in stampede at Kasibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh

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'How am I at fault?': Andhra temple founder denies poor management concerns, blames devotees for stampede that killed 9

Andhra temple tragedy: Reaction, arrest, causes - all you need to know

PM Modi announces ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for victims in Andhra stampede

Andhra temple stampede: Here’s what led to the tragic incident

VIDEO: Packed corridor, loud screams describe scenes at Venkateswara Temple

At least 10 killed, several injured in stampede at Andhra Pradesh temple