Odisha Government Seeks Public Input on Puri Stampede Incident During Rath Yatra

Investigation Launched Following Tragic Stampede

Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, the Odisha government called for public assistance regarding the stampede that occurred near the Shree Gundicha Temple in Puri during the ongoing Rath Yatra celebrations, resulting in three fatalities and injuries to 50 others.

In a public notice, the state administration requested individuals to provide any information, video evidence, or relevant materials concerning the incident that transpired early Sunday, aiming for a thorough and transparent investigation.

The notice from the Planning and Convergence department encouraged anyone with insights into the circumstances surrounding the stampede to come forward.

An official stated, “Members of the public are invited to submit information, video footage, or other materials via email to puritragedy.enquiry@odisha.gov.in by July 20.”

Additionally, the notice indicated that interested individuals could meet with Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar after 3 PM on July 9, and at the Special Circuit House in Puri on July 10 after 3 PM.

To facilitate communication, the state government has provided two landline numbers (0674-2536882/2391970) in Bhubaneswar for the public to relay their information to the inquiry team.

Following the incident, the state government promptly initiated an administrative inquiry, appointing Anu Garg as the chief investigator.

Garg has already conducted a preliminary investigation, visiting the site of the tragedy and consulting with various stakeholders, including law enforcement. She is expected to submit her findings to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi within 30 days.

In the meantime, a four-member team of OAS officers has been established to assist Garg in completing the inquiry within the stipulated one-month timeframe.

Garg stated that her investigation would focus on uncovering the causes of the stampede and identifying those accountable for the incident.

She also plans to review all CCTV footage, assess deployment orders, and ensure that standard operating procedures were adhered to.

In response to the stampede, the state government swiftly reassigned the Puri District Collector and the Superintendent of Police, while two senior police officials were suspended for negligence.

Senior IAS officer Aravind Agarwal has been tasked with overseeing Rath Yatra operations in Puri, and Senior IPS officer Soumendra Priyadarshi has been appointed to enhance police arrangements for the festival.