TV
In the aftermath of the stampede that occurred in the wee hours of last Sunday (June 29) at Saradhabali near Gundicha Temple during Puri Rath Yatra, the head of inquiry commission, Anu Garg, requested the public on Friday to submit any videos of the fatal incident to assist in the ongoing investigation.
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According to sources, following the recent stampede in Puri, the Development Commissioner and head of the inquiry commission, Anu Garg, has urged the public to share any available videos captured during the event. These visual records, she said, could significantly support the official investigation into the chaotic moments that endangered several lives.
The pushing and shoving incident had led to three deaths. Over 50 devotees got severely injured during the beginning phase of the 9-day annual sojourn of the sibling deities.
Garg emphasised that many individuals were seen recording videos during the incident and appealed to them to contribute by sending the footage. Devotees can email any relevant clips or information to puritragedy.inquiry@odisha.gov.in .
For those who prefer to provide evidence in person, arrangements have been made at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar and the Special Circuit House in Puri. Information can be shared at either of the locations after 3.00 PM, official sources said.
Additionally, the Development Commissioner has begun an on-ground probe at the incident site. Officials have been interacting with locals to gather first-hand accounts and reactions to understand what triggered the incident and how it can be avoided in the future.
This appeal marks a significant step toward ensuring transparency and accountability by the State government in managing large-scale public events like the Rath Yatra.
“Inquiry (into the stampede) has already started, and we have requested the general public to share the necessary information with us, if they have any with them. During the festivities, people often make videos of the events. They can share that evidence or any other information. We have provided the vital links such as e-mail and phone, and also mentioned the place to reach out to us,” the inquiry commission head stated.
