Odisha Government Takes Action After Tragic Stampede at Puri Rath Yatra

The Odisha government has responded to a tragic stampede during the Puri Rath Yatra, which resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries. In light of the incident, the state has transferred key officials and suspended police personnel. An investigation is underway to determine the causes of the chaos, which was reportedly exacerbated by overcrowding and vehicles entering restricted areas. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding safety measures and crowd control during religious events. Read on for more details about the government's actions and the ongoing investigation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 16:55 IST

Government Response to Puri Stampede Incident

In the wake of a tragic stampede during the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, Odisha, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals, the state government has made significant decisions. The government has transferred two senior officials and several police personnel as a direct response to the incident. This action comes at a time when an investigation into the event is currently underway.

Transfers Amid Ongoing Investigation

The Odisha government has reassigned Puri's Superintendent of Police, Vineet Agarwal, and District Magistrate, Siddharth Shankar Swain. Senior officer Pinak Mishra, who is presently the Additional Director General (Crime), will take over as the new Superintendent of Police in Puri, while Khurda Collector Chanchal Rana will assume the role of District Magistrate. Additionally, an official statement revealed that two police officers, DCP Vishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhi, have been suspended.

Details of the Puri Rath Yatra Stampede

On June 29, 2025, a devastating stampede occurred during the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri. This incident took place near the Gundicha Temple, leading to the unfortunate deaths of three devotees and injuring around 50 others. Preliminary investigations suggest that the chaos was triggered by trucks entering a crowded area near the chariots, exacerbated by an overwhelming number of attendees. Following this tragedy, the Odisha government expressed profound sorrow and issued an apology, while also ordering a thorough investigation into the incident, raising serious concerns about crowd management and safety protocols during religious events.