Odisha CM Directs Strict Security Protocols for Remaining Rath Yatra Events in Puri

Puri, July 1 — Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday held a high-level review meeting in Puri, directing officials to ensure strict implementation of security and crowd management protocols for the remaining major events of the ongoing Rath Yatra festival.

The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the unfortunate incidents reported during the initial days of the Yatra and emphasized the urgent need for corrective measures. “I am deeply shocked by the incidents that occurred during the first two days of the Rath Yatra,” said Majhi. He has assigned Development Commissioner Anu Garg to investigate the events and submit a detailed report.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of the smooth and safe conduct of upcoming key rituals, including Hera Panchami, Bahuda Yatra (Return Car Festival), Sunavesha, Adharpana, and Niladri Bije.

He instructed officials to:

• Implement real-time crowd estimation and control systems
• Provide adequate facilities for devotees
• Ensure timely performance of rituals
• Reduce and regulate the issuance of cordon passes, making them non-transferable
• Deploy additional police personnel and volunteers along the Badadanda and around the chariots
• Monitor vehicular movement along the Puri–Bhubaneswar route, and ban entry of unauthorised vehicles
• Remove encroachments on public spaces and roads immediately
• Ban inflammable materials on the Grand Road for fire safety

The CM also made a special appeal to servitors to avoid crowding around the deities during the Sunavesha, allowing devotees a clear view of the ceremonial golden attire.

“I understand that the servitors have certain demands. These will be looked into after the festival concludes,” Majhi assured, acknowledging the pivotal role of servitor cooperation in the successful conduct of the Yatra.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, DGP Y.B. Khurania, Special Secretary Saswat Mishra, SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arabind Padhee, Rath Yatra In-charge Arabind Agarwal, Puri District Magistrate Chanchal Rana, and SP Pinak Mishra.

Later, in a separate session, the CM met with members of the Chhatisha Nijog, the apex body representing all servitor groups of Srimandir, seeking their continued support for the remaining festivities.

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan was also present at the review, which underscored the government’s commitment to ensure a safe, spiritual, and smooth experience for millions of devotees expected during the remaining days of the Rath Yatra.