Bangalore: In the stampede at Sabarimalai after Makara Vilakku at 8-30 pm on Friday last, over 20 pilgrims from Karnataka are feared dead. Most of them from Belgaum, and a few of Mysore and Bangalore, it is reported now.
Ministers Shobha K and Umesh Kathi have flown to Kochi today along with a government team of officials to supervise relief operations. CM Yeddyurappa has announced a down payment of Rs.1Lakh to the kin of the dead and Rs. 25,000 each to the injured persons. Condolence messages have started pouring in.
A Muslim devotee from Karwar coming to see Aiyappa for the last 5 years, by name Mehboob, is among the dead, it is learnt. Film actor Vivek Oberoi from Mumbai, recently married in Bangalore, was a pilgrim this year. He has returned home safely as he has in the last 12 years from the Yatra.

Report : Mega Media News  Team

Pics : the Hindu