Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Sunday termed the tragic stampede during the annual Puri Rath Yatra as “very unfortunate” and assured that strict action will follow once an official probe into the incident is complete.
The crowd surge, which occurred during the world-renowned chariot festival of Lord Jagannath, resulted in the death of three devotees and left several others injured.
“The incident is very unfortunate. The state government has taken it seriously. A senior officer will conduct an inquiry, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings,” Harichandan told reporters.
In response to the tragedy, the state government has ordered a high-level administrative inquiry to be overseen by the Development Commissioner. Key officials, including the Puri Superintendent of Police and Collector, were replaced. Odisha DCP Vishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhi have been suspended for negligence.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and announced ₹25 lakh ex gratia for the families of each of the deceased. He also pledged that stringent steps would be taken to hold those accountable and to prevent such incidents in the future.
“Rath Yatra is a matter of pride for Odisha. We are committed to upholding the safety and sanctity of this sacred event,” said the Chief Minister.
Despite the tragedy, the Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration confirmed that the key rituals of the festival continued smoothly. Arabinda K Padhee, Chief Administrator of the temple office, said, “The chariots reached Shree Gundicha Temple on June 28, and all rituals are being observed as per tradition. We thank the devotees for their cooperation.”
Odisha DGP YB Khurania also stated that the Pahandi Bije ceremony—an important ritual of the festival—was carried out peacefully and witnessed by lakhs across the country.
The Puri Rath Yatra, which attracts massive crowds annually, has now prompted authorities to reassess and tighten crowd control and safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
