HARIDWAR: At least six people were killed and many others were injured in a stampede at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar on Sunday after a massive crowd gathered along the stairway route of the popular shrine, officials said.

Confirming the incident, Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said, "Six people have died in a stampede after a huge crowd gathered at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar. I am leaving for the spot. A detailed report of the incident is awaited".

The incident unfolded amid an influx of devotees, reportedly leading to chaos and panic. As soon as information about the stampede came in, police and administrative teams were rushed to the site.

Rescue and relief operations are underway. Authorities are in the process of identifying the victims and assessing the cause of the suspected electrocution.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep grief over the tragedy. "The news of a stampede at Haridwar's Mansa Devi temple is extremely saddening. SDRF, local police and other rescue teams are on-site and engaged in relief and rescue operations," Dhami posted on X.

"I am in constant touch with the local administration and closely monitoring the situation. I pray to Mata Rani for the well-being of all devotees," he added.