North 24 Parganas (West Bengal), June 29: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday confirmed that he has spoken with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and top officials regarding the tragic stampede at Puri’s Sharadhabali that claimed three lives.
Pradhan said the Chief Minister acknowledged responsibility and has assured that prompt and appropriate actions will follow.
“I got to know about this incident in the morning. I have talked to the CM and other officials. He has taken responsibility for the incident and assured the necessary actions will be taken,” Pradhan told.
CM Majhi Expresses Regret, Orders Probe
In a heartfelt post on X, CM Majhi addressed the incident, attributing it to the overwhelming crowd eager to witness the holy darshan of Lord Jagannath at Sharadhabali.
“Due to the intense eagerness among devotees to have a glimpse of Mahaprabhu at Sharadhabali, an unfortunate incident occurred because of the resulting jostling and chaos. Personally, my government and I seek forgiveness from all Jagannath devotees,” he posted.
The Chief Minister conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and announced a formal investigation into the security lapse.
“This negligence is unforgivable. An immediate investigation into the security lapse will be conducted, and exemplary action will be taken against those responsible,” he added.
Law Minister Rushes to Puri, DGP Deployed
Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan also called the incident “unfortunate” and confirmed that the Director General of Police (DGP) had been dispatched to Puri.
“Three people have died due to suffocation in the crowd. Six to seven others were injured. I am heading to Puri and monitoring the situation closely,” Harichandan said, adding that crowd control efforts are underway and more police have been deployed.
He further assured the public that the situation was now under control and devotees were proceeding with darshan without disruption.
Background
The stampede occurred during a surge of devotees at Puri’s Sharadhabali area, known for its religious significance, during the ongoing Rath Yatra festivities. Initial reports suggest the victims died due to suffocation in an overcrowded area.
Authorities have initiated an investigation and pledged to ensure accountability. Meanwhile, security arrangements have been intensified to prevent further incidents.