Sonia, Rahul express grief over Varanasi stampede

New Delhi: Congress President Sonia Gandhi and party Vice President Rahul Gandhi today expressed shock and grief over the stampede at Rajghat bridge between Varanasi and Chandauli in which 19 people were killed and 60 others injured.

Extending her condolences to the families of the deceased, Sonia hoped that the concerned authorities were providing adequate medical relief and compensation to the victims.

The Congress President said she has instructed the UP Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC), Varanasi DCC and Congress workers to provide all possible assistance to the people.

"Shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the stampede in Varanasi.My heartfelt condolences to families of the victims of this tragic incident," the Congress Vice President tweeted.

The incident took place when thousands of followers of religious leader Jai Gurudev were on their way to Domri village on the banks of Ganga to take part in the two-day camp.

Congress Chief Ministerial candidate Shiela Dikshit as also UPCC Chief Raj Babbar expressed condolences over the tragedy.