PM Modi expresses pain over loss of lives in Mecca stampede

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed pain at the loss of lives in stampede in Mecca and conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased.

"Distressing news from Mecca," tweeted Modi, who is in the USA on a six-day visit.

Distressing news from Mecca. Pained at loss of lives due to the stampede. Condolences to families of the deceased & prayers with the injured

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 24, 2015

At least 310 people were killed and 450 others injured today in a stampede during the Haj at Mina, near the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, as per the latest information about one of the worst incidents in nearly a decade to hit the annual pilgrimage.

Over two million pilgrims, including more than 1.5 lakh Indians, are performing the Haj this year.