Puri Rath Yatra 2024: Devotee dies of suffocation during chariot pulling

In an unfortunate incident, a devotee died during the pulling of the Taladhwaja chariot of Lord Balabhadra at Rath Yatra in Puri on Sunday.

The victim was rushed to Puri District Headquarters Hospital immediately after he was injured. However, doctors declared him brought dead.

As per sources, the deceased has been identified as Lalit Bagarti who was a resident of Saintala in Bolangir district. He died due to suffocation. 

“The person didn’t have a cardiac arrest and his pulse was running. We took him to the hospital immediately in the ambulance and gave him CPR. However, doctors declared him brought dead. May his soul rest in peace,” said Sushant Kumar Patnaik, Assistant Commandant of St. John Ambulance service.

Sources said that over 300 persons were rushed to the Puri District Headquarters hospital and as many as 50 persons were released after being given primary treatment.

As per the latest report, many devotees were injured in the process. Health Minister Mukesh Mahalinga, Health Secretary and Director reached the hospital to take stock of the situation.

“The exact reason behind his death can be said after post-mortem. The government will take immediate steps. I am in the hospital and monitoring the situation personally. I am also directing the hospital authorities to provide immediate treatment to the injured,” said Mahalinga.

CM announces ex-gratia

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced Rs 4 lakh ex-gratia to the next of kin of the deceased who died during chariot pulling in Puri. Majhi also ordered free treatment for the injured.

LIVE UPDATE | Pulling of the Holy Trinity's Chariots to Resume Soon

Majhi expressed deepest condolence over the incident and extended his sympathy towards the bereaved family members.