Varanasi stampede: 24 people killed, PM Modi, Sonia Gandhi condole deaths

24 people were killed and over 22 were injured in a stampede at Rajghat bridge between Varanasi and Chandauli where a large number of people had gathered for a religious event on Saturday afternoon. The incident took place when thousands of followers of religious leader Jai Gurudev were on their way to Domri village on the banks of Ganga to take part in the two-day camp, police said.

"Two injured women are being treated in hospital," said UP IG (Law and Order) Hari Ram Sharma. "It will be probed as to who is responsible, arrangements for crowd control and the lapses," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to next of kin of those killed in Varanasi stampede, Rs 50,000 compensation to those injured in the stampede. 

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

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2016

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

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2016

Uttar Pradesh CM Akhilesh Yadav announced Rs 2 lakh each for the family of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each for the critically injured.

Meanwhile, a government spokesman in Lucknow said that the situation in Chandauli is being monitored and all necessary measures were being taken.

(With agency inputs)