What Led to the Puri Rath Yatra Stampede? Insights from Officials

Investigation into the Puri Stampede

Puri: An inquiry into the unfortunate stampede during the Rath Yatra has seen testimonies from 42 officials, including members of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), police, and staff from the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC). This investigation is being led by Development Commissioner Anu Garg.

The tragic event, which took place on June 29 near the Gundicha Temple, resulted in the loss of three lives. During the hearing held at the Special Circuit House in Puri on Wednesday, officials provided their accounts of the incident. The stampede occurred amidst a significant influx of pilgrims pulling Lord Jagannath’s chariot, raising critical questions regarding crowd control and emergency response measures during one of India's largest religious events. The inquiry is set to continue.