Tragic Stampede at Puri: What Led to the Chaos and Loss of Lives?
Investigation Launched Following Puri Stampede
Bhubaneswar: In the wake of a tragic stampede that resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left several others injured near the Gundicha temple in Puri on Sunday, the Odisha government has announced a comprehensive investigation.
The incident took place in the early hours, between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. Eyewitnesses reported that a truck entered the area where devotees were gathered, waiting for the 'darshan' of the deities. This truck was reportedly there to remove palm logs situated near the chariots, which triggered a chaotic scene that escalated into a stampede.
Survivors of the incident claimed that there was no presence of police or district officials at the time of the stampede.
Upon receiving the news, Puri's Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania, along with the District Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP), arrived at the scene.
A police officer present during the stampede informed reporters that there was a significant influx of devotees. Following the 'Pahuda' (the ceremonial closure of the deities' darshan), a large crowd surged towards the area, leading to the unfortunate incident.
Puri Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain addressed the media, stating, “After the ceremonial closure of Darshan, when the darshan of the deities commenced early in the morning, a massive number of devotees rushed towards the cordon. Approximately nine individuals reported breathlessness and were subsequently taken to the hospital. Currently, three fatalities have been confirmed, and six others are receiving treatment.”
Puri SP Vinit Agrawal refuted claims made by devotees regarding the absence of police during the incident.
Odisha's Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of life and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted, and appropriate actions would be taken against those responsible.
The deceased have been identified as Pravati Das, Premkant Mohanty, and Basanti Sahoo.