New Delhi/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of six lives due to a stampede which broke out at Vishnu Nivasam in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati.

"Pained by the stampede in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon. The AP Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected," wrote the PM on X.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu wrote on X, "The death of several devotees in a stampede near Vishnu Niwasam in Tirupati for tokens to visit Tirumala Srivari Vaikuntha Dwara has shocked me.

"This tragic incident, which took place at a time when devotees had gathered in large numbers for tokens, deeply disturbed me. In the wake of information that the condition of some of them is critical, I have directed higher officials to go to the spot and take relief measures... to provide better medical treatment to the injured and save their lives. I am talking to the district and TTD officials from time to time and am taking stock of the situation."

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said, "The tragic stampede in Tirupati is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Wishing a swift recovery to all those injured. I urge Congress leaders and workers to provide all possible assistance during this difficult time."

The stampede broke out during the distribution of tokens for Vaikuntha Dwara Sarvadarshanam, which is a special 'darshan' for devotees for 10 days, starting Friday.

According to reports, a massive rush of devotees attempting to secure tokens resulted in the stampede.

One of the deceased devotees hailed from Tamil Nadu's Salem. Sixteen others received injuries during the incident and were taken to the Ruia Hospital for treatment.

Visuals showed heavy police presence in the area as the injured were being shifted to ambulances.

Witnesses said as many as 60 people fell on each other as they were trying to collect tokens at the counter.  Some devotees alleged that there was negligence on the part of the police.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Board chairperson, BR Naidu, ruled out any conspiracy and said it was an accident.

"I had suspected something could go wrong and warned officials not to take it easy. There were rumours spread that not everyone may be allowed in Tirumala," NDTV quoted Reddy as saying.