Bhubaneswar: Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday announced that the probe report into the Puri stampede during the Rath Yatra will be submitted within 30 days.
He assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the tragic incident, which claimed three lives and injured several devotees late Saturday night.
Speaking to reporters, Harichandan said the state government has launched a prompt investigation and is committed to ensuring the smooth continuation of all remaining rituals.
“This was indeed an unfortunate event. The government responded immediately by initiating a preliminary investigation. Necessary action will follow once the probe is completed,” he stated.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to a peaceful Rath Yatra, the Minister added that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has issued clear instructions to ensure the remaining rituals—from Bahuda Yatra to Niladri Bije—are conducted without disruption.
“All arrangements have been made to prevent any inconvenience to devotees,” he noted.
Harichandan emphasised that the administration is working diligently with the blessings of Mahaprabhu Jagannath.
“We are confident that all events will proceed smoothly and that no devotee will face any difficulty. Our priority remains maintaining law and order and preserving the sanctity of the Yatra,” he said.
Responding to criticism from opposition parties, the Law Minister remarked, “Those raising questions today were responsible for graver lapses during their own tenure. Unlike in the past, we are committed to transparency, accountability, and timely action.”
Concluding his remarks, Harichandan reiterated that the Rath Yatra will continue without hindrance and the investigation findings will be made public within a month.
