At least 12 people were killed and 14 injured in a stampede caused by a surge of devotees on the New Year's Day at a famous hill-top Hindu shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian media reported today.
The stampede happened at Mata Vaishno Devi temple atop Trikuta Hills shortly after midnight.
As quoted by The Indian Express, Mukesh Singh, additional director general of police, confirmed that 12 pilgrims have died and at least 14 were injured in the incident.
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said a high-level inquiry into the incident has been ordered.
Police said rescue operations began immediately and all the injured have been taken to hospitals where condition of some was stated to be "critical".
The temple located at a height of 5,200 feet is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in India where tens of thousands offer prayers every day. The temple attracts nearly one million pilgrims every year.
After the stampede, the pilgrimage to the shrine was halted briefly before resuming.
Jammu and Kashmir Police Chief Dilbag Singh told ANI, "As per initial reports, an argument broke out which resulted in people pushing each other, followed by stampede."
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in a stampede at Mata Vaishno temple.
In a tweet, he said: "Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon."
