Bhubaneswar: The State government has initiated action after a stampede on Saradhabali in Puri claimed three lives on Sunday morning.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, while expressing deep grief, has announced Rs 25 lakh compensation to the families of each deceased. Majhi has also ordered a comprehensive administrative inquiry into the incident, which will be conducted under the Development Commissioner, Anu Garg.
As part of the administrative action, Puri District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain and Superintendent of Police (SP) Vinit Agrawal have been transferred in connection with the incident. Chanchal Rana has been appointed as the new District Collector of Puri, while Pinak Mishra has taken over as the new SP. Additionally, DSP Bishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhi have been suspended for dereliction of duty.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath is a matter of pride and glory for Odisha, and any negligence in its management will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against all those found responsible for the incident.
The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri is world-renowned, attracting lakhs of devotees who flock to witness the divine darshan of Lord Jagannath in Saradhabali. The stampede occurred due to the excitement and crowd, resulting in the unfortunate demise of three devotees. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the incident and has tendered an apology on behalf of the state government.
