Odisha DGP Rushes to Puri After Chaos Near Jagannath Temple During Panchuka Rituals

A chaotic situation unfolded near the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Sunday after a massive crowd of devotees gathered for the Panchuka rituals, observed during the final days of the holy Kartika month.

Following reports of commotion near the temple’s northern gate, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania rushed to Puri to review the situation. He convened a high-level meeting with the DIG (Central Range), Puri SP, District Collector, and officials of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to assess crowd management measures and ensure order around the 12th-century shrine.

According to police sources, devotees were initially allowed entry only through the Singha Dwar (Lion’s Gate) on the eastern side. However, as the number of visitors swelled, hundreds of devotees reportedly broke barricades and forced their way through the northern gate, resulting in chaos and congestion.

Security personnel deployed at the site managed to bring the situation under control. “The situation has been stabilised. Additional police personnel have been deployed to regulate the crowd and maintain smooth temple entry,” a police officer said.

The Panchuka period, marking the last five days of Kartika, is considered one of the most sacred times for Lord Jagannath devotees. Thousands throng the Puri temple during this period to offer prayers, often leading to heavy footfall around the temple complex.

DGP Khurania directed officials to strengthen barricading, enhance crowd regulation, and ensure the safety of all devotees for the remaining days of the holy observance.