What Happened in the Stampede at Gundicha Temple in Puri?
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Synopsis
The tragic stampede near Sri Gundicha Temple during Rath Yatra has raised serious concerns about crowd management. Development Commissioner Anu Garg's inquiry report aims to clarify the causes and recommend preventive measures. This incident highlights the need for better safety protocols during large public gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Thorough investigation is crucial for accountability.
- Public involvement is essential for transparency.
- Enhanced crowd management protocols are necessary.
- Immediate actions were taken against negligent officials.
- Compensation for victims' families reflects government responsibility.
Bhubaneswar, July 31 (NationPress) Development Commissioner Anu Garg presented the inquiry report regarding the stampede that took place near the Sri Gundicha Temple in Puri during the Rath Yatra on June 29 this year.
The Odisha government had initiated an administrative investigation into this unfortunate event, assigning the task to the Development Commissioner, who was instructed to deliver the findings within a month.
Her responsibilities included determining the underlying causes of the stampede, identifying any shortcomings in crowd management or administrative oversight, and proposing strategies to avert such occurrences in the future.
The state authorities have also requested the public to provide any pertinent information, video evidence, or other documentation to facilitate a thorough and transparent inquiry.
On Thursday evening, Garg submitted the report to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhavan.
In the course of the inquiry, Garg held public hearings in Bhubaneswar and Puri, collecting testimonies from a diverse group, including servitors, police personnel, and members of the community.
It is crucial to note that the tragic stampede occurred during the early hours of June 29, 2025, between 3:50 a.m. and 4:20 a.m., at Saradhabali near the Gundicha Temple in Puri.
The incident transpired while the chariots of Lord Jagannath and his siblings were positioned near the Sri Gundicha Temple during the Rath Yatra festival.
Reports indicate that the stampede, which resulted in the loss of three devotees' lives, was triggered by an overwhelming crowd—larger than previous years due to favorable weather—combined with the entry of two trucks to clear the sacred Charamala wood from the chariots, and the unplanned reopening for darshan of the deities in the early hours.
In response, CM Majhi expressed his condolences to the devotees of Lord Jagannath and mandated an urgent investigation into the security oversights.
Furthermore, the Odisha Government removed Puri District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain and Superintendent of Police Vinit Agrawal from their positions.
Additionally, two senior police officials—DCP Vishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhee—have been suspended for failing in their duties. The government also announced immediate ex-gratia payments of Rs 25 lakh to the families of the deceased pilgrims.
Point of View
The focus must remain on the systemic failures that led to this tragic incident. A thorough inquiry is essential to restore public trust and ensure safety during such significant events. The Odisha government’s swift actions demonstrate a commitment to accountability and reform.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede near Gundicha Temple?
The stampede was caused by an overwhelming crowd, the entry of trucks, and unplanned reopening for darshan during early hours.
What actions were taken by the Odisha government?
The government ordered an inquiry, suspended several officials, and announced compensation for the victims' families.
How many people were affected by the stampede?
The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of three devotees.
What recommendations were made in the inquiry report?
The report focuses on improving crowd management and administrative oversight to prevent future incidents.
Where did the incident occur?
The stampede took place at Saradhabali near the Sri Gundicha Temple in Puri.
