Bhubaneswar, June 29, 2025: The Odisha government has taken decisive administrative action within hours of a devastating stampede during the Puri Rath Yatra, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Responding to the tragedy at the "Shradha Bali" viewing point, the state administration transferred the Puri District Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) and suspended two senior police officers. 
In a major reshuffle, Siddharth Shankar Swain has been replaced as Puri District Collector by Chanchal Rana. Similarly, SP Vineet Agrawal has been transferred out, with Pinak Mishra taking charge as the new Puri SP. The government cited the need for immediate administrative overhaul following the incident.
Expressing deep personal sorrow, CM Majhi shared his grief on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "I am personally and on behalf of my government, apologizing to all Jagannath devotees for the unfortunate incident that occurred due to the overwhelming eagerness and resulting push among devotees to witness the Lord at Shradha Bali," Majhi stated.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, praying to Lord Jagannath to grant them strength. Majhi emphasized the gravity of the situation, calling the apparent security lapse "unforgivable."
Majhi underscored the immense cultural and spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra for Odias. "The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is the pride and glory of our Odia community. Even the slightest negligence in its management will not be tolerated," the CM asserted firmly. He promised "exemplary action" against anyone found responsible for the lapses.
In a major reshuffle, Siddharth Shankar Swain has been replaced as Puri District Collector by Chanchal Rana. Similarly, SP Vineet Agrawal has been transferred out, with Pinak Mishra taking charge as the new Puri SP. The government cited the need for immediate administrative overhaul following the incident.
Suspensions for Alleged Negligence
Going beyond transfers, the government suspended two police officers for alleged negligence in duty. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Vishnu Pati and Commander Ajay Padi now face suspension pending further investigation. The government acted swiftly on accusations of administrative lapses contributing to the deadly crowd surge.Compensation Announced, CM Expresses Profound Grief
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced ex-gratia compensation of ₹25 lakh for the family of each deceased victim. The state government also issued a formal apology to the people of Odisha for the tragic incident.Expressing deep personal sorrow, CM Majhi shared his grief on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "I am personally and on behalf of my government, apologizing to all Jagannath devotees for the unfortunate incident that occurred due to the overwhelming eagerness and resulting push among devotees to witness the Lord at Shradha Bali," Majhi stated.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, praying to Lord Jagannath to grant them strength. Majhi emphasized the gravity of the situation, calling the apparent security lapse "unforgivable."
High-Level Inquiry Ordered, Zero Tolerance Pledged
The Chief Minister has ordered to inquire into the stampede. The probe will be conducted under the chairmanship of the Development Commissioner, focusing specifically on security arrangements and crowd management failures.Majhi underscored the immense cultural and spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra for Odias. "The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is the pride and glory of our Odia community. Even the slightest negligence in its management will not be tolerated," the CM asserted firmly. He promised "exemplary action" against anyone found responsible for the lapses.
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