Puri Stampede: 3 devotees killed, over 50 injured in mishap near Gundicha Temple

At least three devotees were killed and over 50 injured in a stampede at Saradhabali near Gundicha Temple in Puri, in the early hours of Sunday, where the three chariots with the Holy Trinity onboard are stationed.

The deceased have been identified as Prabhati Das, Basanti Sahu, and Premakanta Mohanty.

According to reports, the mishap occurred at around 4:20 AM when an overwhelming crowd of devotees had gathered for darshan of Lord Jagannath and His Siblings. 

Eyewitnesses alleged that the situation turned chaotic when two trucks carrying 'charamala' entered the densely packed area, leading to panic and a sudden rush among the devotees.

Sources indicate that the Mahaprabhu’s ‘Pahuda’ was completed at around 12:30 AM, and it was reopened for darshan at 3:45 AM, following which massive crowds surged forward. In the resulting commotion, two women and one man were reportedly trampled.

Nearly 50 others sustained injuries in the melee and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

No Police At The Spot?

Disturbingly, several eyewitnesses alleged that there was no visible police deployment at the site to manage the surging crowd. The absence of effective crowd control is being cited as a major factor behind the mishap.

Law Minister Responds

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan confirmed that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has been apprised of the situation, and assured of immediate action and a thorough investigation. 

“I have a word with the Chief Minister in the early hours. We will take necessary action,” said Harichandan.