A stampede near India’s Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh killed six and injured 35 as thousands gathered for free visit passes during an auspicious period.

The rush occurred when a gate opened, leading to a surge in the crowd.

Authorities are investigating the cause, and the temple operator apologized, promising accountability.

Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister visited the site, while the opposition blamed the government for poor crowd management, NBC News has reported.

Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences.

Written by B.C. Begley