Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, May 4: In a solemn response to the tragic stampede at the Shree Devi Lairai Zatra in Shirgao, the Goa government has announced a three-day cancellation of all state-sponsored events. The stampede, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, claimed six lives and left nearly 80 injured.

The General Administration Department issued an official notification directing all departments, government corporations, and autonomous bodies to suspend or postpone festive and public celebrations during the mourning period.

“The Government of Goa expresses deep condolences to the families of the victims. All government-supported events over the next three days stand cancelled or deferred,” the notification stated.

The first event to be called off was the Tourism Department’s much-anticipated Spirit of Goa Festival, which was scheduled to take place at the SAG Grounds in Colva from May 3 to 4. In a statement, the department said the decision was made out of respect for the victims and their families. “Our thoughts are with those affected. The Department stands in solidarity with the people of Goa during this difficult time,” it added.

The stampede occurred when an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 devotees gathered in and around the narrow lanes leading to the temple. Overcrowding on a slope near the temple caused people to lose balance and fall, creating a domino effect that resulted in the deadly crush.

Director General of Police Alok Kumar said, “A few devotees slipped on the slope, leading to a pile-up involving nearly 50 people. The crowd density was overwhelming, which escalated the situation.”

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant rushed to the site along with senior police and administrative officials to assess the damage and meet with affected families. Following a high-level review meeting, the government ordered the transfer of five officials from the police and district administration for their handling of the event.

Authorities have promised a full investigation into the incident and have pledged to implement stricter crowd management protocols for future public gatherings.