The Odisha government has urged the public to assist in its ongoing investigation into the stampede incident that occurred at Saradhabali near Gundicha Temple in Puri after ‘Pahuda’ ritual, which resulted in the death of three individuals and left 50 others injured.
In a public notice released on Thursday, the Planning and Convergence Department urged individuals to submit any relevant details, including video recordings or other material that could aid in conducting a transparent and thorough inquiry into the tragic event that unfolded early Sunday morning.
Email, In-Person Submissions and Helpline Numbers Provided
“The members of the public are urged to share information, video footage or any other material through the e-mail puritragedy.enquiry@odisha.gov.in by July 20,” PTI quoted an official.
Additionally, the notice informed that those wishing to present information in person could do so by meeting 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 after 3 pm on July 10.
To further support public participation, the government has provided two landline numbers (0674-2536882/2391970) for people to directly communicate with the inquiry team handling the investigation.
Inquiry Led by Anu Garg Underway
Soon after the stampede, the state administration appointed Anu Garg to head an administrative inquiry. Garg has since visited the site of the incident and held discussions with various stakeholders, including police officials. She is expected to submit her report to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi within 30 days.
Four-Member OAS Team to Assist Investigation
On Wednesday, a four-member team of OAS officers was formed to support Garg in completing the inquiry within the prescribed timeline. Garg, after an initial assessment, said the investigation would focus on identifying the causes of the stampede and those accountable for the situation.
Review to Cover CCTV Footage and SOP Compliance
“I would also see what more measures could be taken to avoid such incidents in future,” she stated. Her review will include examining CCTV footage, checking deployment orders, and verifying compliance with standard operating procedures.
Administrative Action Following Tragedy
Following the incident, the state government swiftly removed the Puri District Collector and Superintendent of Police from their posts. Two senior police officials were also suspended for alleged negligence.
In the aftermath, senior IAS officer Aravind Agarwal has been appointed to oversee Rath Yatra arrangements in Puri while senior IPS officer Soumendra Priyadarshi has been entrusted with managing the overall police deployment for the event.