Varanasi stampede: Sonia Gandhi,Rahul Gandhi mourn loss of lives

The Congress tweeted quoting Sonia Gandhi: "Shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the stampede in Varanasi. Our heartfelt condolences to families of the victims of this tragedy."

The official Twitter page Rahul Gandhi-Office of RG - said : "Shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the stampede in Varanasi.My heartfelt condolences to families of the victims of this tragic incident."

A stampede during a religious ceremony at Rajghat bridge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi city left at least 19 people killed,media reports said.

The incident reportedly left 50 others injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh have mourned the loss of lies in the mishap.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the stampede in Varanasi. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with those injured," Modi tweeted.

He said: "I have spoken to officials & asked them to ensure all possible help to those affected due to the stampede in Varanasi."

Singh also mourned the loss of lives in the incident and tweeted: "Deeply pained at the loss of lives due to stampede at Varanasi. My condolences to the families of the deceased & prayers with the injured."

"Spoke to Commissioner of Varanasi who apprised me of the situation.I asked him to provide all possible help to those affected by the tragedy," he said.

The incident occurred when followers of Jai Gurudev had gathered at the bridge, reports said.

Following the mishap, UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav  announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakhs each for kin of those killed in the stampede and Rs 50,000 each for the critically injured, media reports said.

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