Puri, Jun 30 (PTI) – In the aftermath of a tragic stampede that led to the loss of three lives, Odisha is taking measures to ensure the seamless continuation of the Rath Yatra festivities. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who previously expressed his apologies for the incident, has directed the administration to tackle the challenges head-on.
The unfortunate event unfolded near Shree Gundicha Temple, where the revered deities - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra - traditionally reside temporarily during the Rath Yatra. Known as the spiritual retreat to their aunt's sanctuary, Gundicha Temple holds significant cultural importance.
Former DGP and current advisor to the Chief Minister, Prakash Mishra, has been dispatched to Puri. He is actively engaging with stakeholders to streamline the ceremonial procedures and prevent any further mishaps. Mishra, an experienced officer, has previously held prestigious positions at the CRPF and NDRF.
Mishra emphasized, “We must ensure the remaining stages of Rath Yatra are executed flawlessly.” He pointed out that ADG Soumendra Priyadarshi, who oversees police arrangements, is well-equipped to manage the festivities due to his extensive experience.
Puri has welcomed new administrative appointees; Chanchal Rana as Collector and Pinak Mishra as SP, both are well-versed with Puri’s temple affairs.
The first aspect of the Rath Yatra, transporting the deities from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple, concluded successfully. The forthcoming rituals, anticipated to attract large crowds, include 'Sandhya Darshan' (July 4), 'Bahuda Yatra' or the return procession (July 5), 'Suna Besha' (July 6), and 'Niladri Bije' (July 8).
Anticipation surrounds the Bahuda Yatra on July 5, during which the deities’ chariots are ceremoniously towed back to the main temple. The subsequent Suna Besha on July 6, when the deities are adorned in golden attire, is expected to draw an even larger assembly of devotees.
Senior bureaucrat Aravind Agarwal, armed with considerable experience from his tenure as Puri’s collector, is tasked with overseeing the entire Rath Yatra proceedings. Mishra conveyed that Agarwal's insights are valuable in managing the unique requirements of the event.
The Chief Minister’s advisor has appealed for public cooperation, emphasizing that orderly conduct will ensure everyone has the opportunity for deity ‘darshan.’
Meanwhile, Development Commissioner Anu Garg has been given a 30-day window to investigate the stampede. "I will soon visit Puri and assess the situation," Garg declared in Bhubaneswar.
Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has acknowledged the negligence that led to Sunday’s incident, assuring that accountability measures are already in motion. Harichandan noted that the DC’s inquiry will delve into the causes, responsibilities, and preventive strategies related to the stampede.
The Odisha government, following the stampede, has taken swift action, replacing Puri's district collector and SP, and suspending two senior police officers for negligence.
During a series of closed-door meetings on Monday, Agarwal engaged with temple servitors and individuals experienced in the Rath Yatra's orchestration. Seeking divine intervention for the successful fulfillment of his responsibilities, Agarwal expressed his commitment to the task at hand.
According to temple historical data, prior to the recent tragedy, Puri had experienced five stampedes since 2006, claiming 17 lives. Notable incidents include six deaths during Rath Yatra on July 4, 2008, and four on Kartik Purnima day, November 4, 2006. In recent years, two fatalities occurred during Rath Yatra on July 21, 2012, and July 18, 2015. This latest tragedy on June 29, 2025, is the first stampede occurring outside Shree Gundicha Temple post-chariot procession.
The authorities’ swift response, introducing special barricade arrangements, facilitated a peaceful darshan experience on Monday, reassuring devotees in the aftermath of the tragic incident.
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