Puri stampede: Odisha CM apologies to Jagannath devotees, orders action after probe

In the wake of the tragic stampede at Puri during the ongoing Rath Yatra festivities, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep sorrow and offered a heartfelt apology to the Lord Jagannath devotees for the unfortunate incident. 

The mishap, which reportedly occurred due to a sudden surge and panic among the crowd eager to catch a glimpse of Lord Jagannath, resulted in the loss of three lives and left many injured in the wee hours of Sunday.

In his address to the public through his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Chief Minister wrote,  “The massive rush of devotees driven by an intense spiritual longing to see Mahaprabhu Jagannath led to a situation that spiralled out of control. I am deeply hurt over the incident. On behalf of myself and my government, I extend my sincerest apologies to all Jagannath devotees for the tragic incident at Saradhabali…”

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

Expressing his deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the stampede, the Chief Minister added, “I offer my prayers to Lord Jagannath to grant strength to the bereaved families to endure this unbearable pain. Their grief is ours too, and we stand united with them in this hour of mourning.”

Terming the incident as ‘unforgivable negligence’, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for accountability and swift action. He confirmed that an immediate investigation has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the lapse in crowd control and security arrangements.

“I have directed officials to conduct a thorough probe into the security lapses that led to this tragedy. Strict and exemplary action will be taken against those found responsible,” he assured.

The Odisha government has also taken steps to ensure improved crowd management for the remainder of the Rath Yatra festival, assuring that such a catastrophe does not repeat.

 Emergency response teams and additional security forces have been deployed, and officials have been instructed to remain on high alert throughout the festive period.

The incident has cast a shadow on the otherwise joyous annual Rath Yatra celebrations, and the government’s swift response will be crucial in restoring public faith and ensuring the safety of lakhs of devotees who continue to arrive in Puri.