The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has sharply criticised the Odisha state government for its handling of the tragic stampede at the Saradhabali in Puri, which claimed three lives and left over 150 devotees injured.
A BJD delegation, led by senior leader Sanjay Kumar Das Burma, visited the incident site at Gundicha Temple and met with senior servitors to investigate the circumstances surrounding the mishap. The party attributed the tragedy to administrative mismanagement and the absence of senior officials, urging the government to ensure better coordination for the remaining rituals of the Rath Yatra.
Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik personally reached out to the families of the deceased, offering condolences and support.
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The delegation, which included former minister Tusharkanti Behera, Puri district vice-president Swadhin Nayak, and senior leader Bidyadhar Swain, also visited Puri’s main hospital to assess the condition of the injured and held discussions with health officials.
The BJD pointed out that no senior administrative or police officials were present at the site during the incident, highlighting a lack of coordination and oversight. “The administrative failure and absence of proper management have deeply hurt millions of Lord Jagannath devotees,” said Das Burma. He criticised the government for pulling the chariots after 7:30 PM, against protocol, which caused widespread concern among devotees and servitors.
The party also condemned the government’s “illogical justifications” and called for humility and devotion in managing the remaining rituals, including Adapa Bije, Bahuda Yatra, Adharpana Niti, Niladri Bije, and Suna Besha.
BJD Rajya Sabha MP Subhasish Khuntia further lambasted the government for superficial actions, such as transferring the SP and District Collector, without addressing core issues. He cited incidents like attacks on journalists and unrestricted movement of out-of-state vehicles as evidence of the government’s failure. “The state government’s committee of five ministers seems to have vanished. They must shed arrogance and serve Lord Jagannath with devotion to ensure the Yatra concludes smoothly,” Khuntia said.
The BJD urged the administration to prioritise devotee safety and ensure no further lapses occur, emphasising that pride and arrogance have no place in the service of Lord Jagannath. The party’s call for accountability has intensified pressure on the state government as the Rath Yatra continues.
