Panaji: In a horrifying turn of events, a religious celebration in Goa turned deadly when a stampede broke out during the annual Lairai Devi procession at Shirgaon, leaving six people dead and over 50 others injured. The incident, which unfolded during the early hours of Saturday morning, has sent shockwaves through the state, raising serious concerns about crowd management and safety protocols at large-scale religious gatherings.
The temple grounds in Shirgaon, situated in Goa’s Bicholim taluka, were thronged by thousands of devotees who had gathered to take part in the Lairai Jatra—an age-old celebration dedicated to Goddess Lairai, a revered deity in Goan folk tradition believed to be a form of Parvati. The festival is celebrated with grandeur each year in late April or early May, drawing pilgrims from across Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
What Sparked the Chaos?
According to preliminary information, the stampede was triggered between 4:00 and 4:30 am, as the temple courtyard grew increasingly crowded. Eyewitnesses recount a moment of confusion and sudden fear, which quickly escalated into a frantic stampede. Some reports suggest that an electric shock or short circuit may have startled the crowd, although officials have yet to confirm the exact cause. The Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, acknowledged that the possibility of an electrical fault causing panic was being investigated but said the matter was still under review.
Midnight rituals had brought thousands together near a large ceremonial fire where devotees traditionally gather to perform wishes and participate in the agnidivya ritual—walking barefoot over embers to show devotion. Whether this ritual was underway during the stampede is still unclear.
As panic spread, devotees began pushing and shoving in an attempt to flee the packed area, resulting in several individuals being trampled underfoot. Among the deceased is a 17-year-old boy, and several of the injured remain in critical condition at local hospitals.
Security Measures and Their Limitations
Authorities had anticipated the large turnout and reportedly put in place extensive security arrangements in advance of the event. Over 1,000 police officers were deployed, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), numerous inspectors, and women officers. Additional personnel from the Goa Reserve Police Force were stationed on-site, along with over 300 traffic officers to manage vehicle flow.
Drones had been deployed to monitor crowd behavior, and even a Vajra Van (a riot-control vehicle) was kept on standby. Some officers had been assigned to blend into the crowd in civilian attire to deter theft and pickpocketing. Despite these precautions, the chaotic stampede indicates that the security measures may have been insufficient to handle a surge of this magnitude.
Emergency Response and Relief Efforts
As soon as reports of the incident emerged, emergency response units rushed to the site. Ambulances and rescue teams began transporting the injured to medical facilities, including Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) and North Goa District Hospital. Additional medical staff were called in to handle the influx of patients.
Chief Minister Sawant personally visited the hospitals to meet with the injured and their families. He assured the public that all necessary assistance was being provided and that the government was committed to a full investigation.
“A thorough inquiry is underway to determine what went wrong. We will ensure accountability and take measures to prevent such tragedies in the future,” said Sawant during a media briefing.
National Condolences and Central Government’s Attention
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also responded to the tragedy with a message of condolence and support. Taking to social media, he said:
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgaon, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.”
The Prime Minister has reportedly been in close contact with state officials to monitor the situation.
Helpline and Public Advisory
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane announced the activation of a 24×7 emergency helpline (104) to assist affected families and coordinate medical support. Ten advanced ambulances have been deployed across North Goa, and district hospitals are on high alert to receive more patients if necessary.
As the community grapples with the loss, questions are being raised about how a festival with well-established rituals and a known turnout pattern could have ended in such devastation. Authorities are expected to release a preliminary investigation report in the coming days. Meanwhile, the state government has promised ex gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and the injured.
The Lairai Jatra, intended as a time of devotion and celebration, has now been overshadowed by grief. The tragedy at Shirgaon serves as a sobering reminder of the need for better safety planning at religious events that draw massive crowds.
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