The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement on July 14, 2015 THE Polit Bureau expresses its sorrow at the death of 32 people, mainly women and children, and at the injuries suffered by many others, in the stampede at the Godavari “Pushkaralu” in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. It is reported that the death toll is rising. It conveys its condolences to the bereaved families. It is unfortunate that although the chief minister called on lakhs of devotees to attend the festival, the arrangements made by his government were totally inadequate, leading to this tragedy. It is necessary to set up an investigation so as to pinpoint responsibility and take appropriate measures.