Droupadi Murmu, Narendra Modi mourn loss of lives in Goa stampede

"Sad to know about the unfortunate incident of a stampede in Shirgao, Goa which claimed several lives. I extend my condolences to bereaved family members and pray for quick recovery of the injured," she wrote on X.

PM feels saddened

Indian PM Narendra Modi said the mishap left him saddened.

"Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected," he said.

At least seven people died and 30 others were injured after a stampede broke out during the Shri Lairai Zatra (an annual religious procession) in Goa’s Shirgao late on Friday.

The procession was taking place in the Lairai Devi temple.

The injured people were rushed to North Goa District Hospital for the treatment.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant went to the hospital to take stock of the situation.

The cause of the stampede is still not known.

Sawant, earlier in the day, said he is monitoring the situation.

In his X handle, the Chief Minister wrote: "Deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning."

He said: "I visited the hospital to meet the injured and have assured all possible support to the affected families. I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken."

He said a magisterial inquiry will be intiated to probe the matter.

Shirgao Jatra, also known as Lairai Zatra, is a prominent religious procession held in Goa every year.

The event attracts a large number of devotees every year.

The festival also includes a fire-walking ritual.

According to reports, the religious ritual is dedicated to the Goddess Lairai.