6 killed, over 50 injured in Goa temple stampede

At least six people were killed and more than 50 others injured after a stampede broke out during the annual Lairai Devi jatra (procession) at a temple in India's Goa early Saturday, Report informs via NDTV.

The incident took place at the Sree Devi Lairai temple -- around 40 kilometres away from state capital Panaji -- when panic spread during the large religious gathering, causing a sudden rush among thousands of devotees. Witnesses said there were chaotic scenes as people struggled to escape the dense crowd.

The injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said they were "saddened" by the loss of lives due to the stampede in Shirgaon.

"Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected," PM Modi's office posted on X.