Srikakulam, Nov. 1 -- The stampede that claimed nine lives at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Srikakulam occurred at a privately built, unregistered shrine where organisers had not taken prior permission or informed authorities about the event, police officials said on Saturday.

According to officials, the tragedy took place after an iron grill collapsed, causing several devotees to fall from a height of about seven feet. At the time, nearly 3,000 to 5,000 people were present at the temple premises for the religious event. Two of the injured are said to be in serious condition.

Srikakulam Superintendent of Police, KV Maheswara Reddy, told ANI that the incident occured within the limits of Kasibugga police station.

"A total of nine...