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Puri: A stampede during the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, on Sunday morning claimed the lives of at least three people and left over 50 others injured, prompting a high-level inquiry and an official apology from the state government.

The tragedy took place near the Gundicha Temple, a central point in the annual religious procession, where thousands had gathered in the wee hours. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convened an emergency meeting in the wake of the incident, accepting full responsibility. He announced that a detailed investigation is being conducted and assured that those found negligent will face strict consequences.

“We are determined to prevent such tragedies in the future. Devotee safety remains our utmost concern,” Majhi said.

Here are the top updates:

• The stampede during the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri around 4 am on Sunday resulted in the deaths of at least three devotees and injuries to over 50 others. The chaos unfolded near the Gundicha Temple, where thousands had gathered to witness the ceremonial unveiling of the deities on their chariots.
• The incident was reportedly triggered when two trucks carrying sacred Charamala wood entered the Saradhabali area, causing panic among the densely packed crowd. Eyewitnesses blamed inadequate crowd control, alleging that a newly opened VIP route caused confusion. While regular devotees were being directed to exit from a distant point, many began leaving through the VIP entrance itself, leading to a dangerous buildup.
• In response, the Odisha government launched a high-level investigation. State Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan confirmed that the Director General of Police, YB Khurania, is leading the inquiry and has promised strict action against those found responsible.
• Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convened an emergency meeting with senior officials and expressed regret over the incident. He extended an apology on behalf of the government and offered ₹25 lakh compensation to the families of the deceased. Two senior police officers—Puri DCP Bishnu Charan Pati and Police Commandant Ajay Padhi, were suspended. Additionally, Collector Siddharth S Swain and SP Binit Agarwal were transferred.
• The tragedy drew reactions from religious leaders and political figures. Senior Jagannath Temple servitor Ramakrishna Das Mahapatra conveyed his sorrow and called for stronger safety measures. Puri’s titular king, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, voiced shock and urged a thorough investigation.
• Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said the tragedy highlights the urgent need for robust crowd management protocols at major religious gatherings. Former chief minister Naveen Patnaik of the Biju Janata Dal also extended condolences, blaming the incident on gross mismanagement.