Negligence & mismanagement are inexcusable: Kharge on Puri stampede
A tragic incident has unfolded in Puri, Odisha, as a stampede during the Rath Yatra has claimed at least three lives and left many others injured. The Congress chief, Mallikarjun Kharge, has strongly condemned the incident, holding the Odisha government responsible for the tragedy. In a statement, Kharge emphasized that the negligence and mismanagement that led to this disaster are inexcusable.
The Rath Yatra, a significant Hindu festival, has been marred by chaos and tragedy this year. On Friday, reports emerged of over 500 devotees being injured, and the situation only worsened on Sunday when a stampede broke out, resulting in the loss of three precious lives. The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many calling for a thorough investigation and accountability from those responsible.
Kharge’s statement comes as a stern rebuke to the Odisha government, which has been criticized for its handling of the festival. The Congress chief has called for immediate action to be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. “This tragedy follows reports of 500 devotees being injured on Friday during the yatra. The negligence and mismanagement that led to this tragedy are inexcusable,” Kharge said.
The Rath Yatra, which is a significant cultural and religious event in Odisha, has been marred by controversy in recent years. In 2019, a similar stampede during the festival had claimed several lives, leading to widespread criticism of the government’s handling of the event. Despite these incidents, the Odisha government has failed to take adequate measures to ensure the safety and security of devotees.
The latest incident has raised questions about the government’s preparedness and response to such emergencies. The Odisha government has announced an inquiry into the incident, but many are demanding more stringent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Kharge’s statement has been widely welcomed by opposition parties and civil society groups, who have called for a comprehensive review of the government’s handling of the Rath Yatra. The Congress chief’s words have also resonated with many ordinary citizens who have expressed outrage and disappointment at the incident.
The Puri stampede is a stark reminder of the importance of effective governance and responsible leadership. In a country where millions of people gather for festivals and celebrations every year, it is imperative that governments take adequate measures to ensure the safety and security of citizens.
The Odisha government has a responsibility to its citizens to provide a safe and secure environment for all events, including the Rath Yatra. The latest incident is a wake-up call for the government to review its policies and procedures, and to take immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the nation mourns the loss of lives and extends its condolences to the families of the victims, it is essential that we also demand accountability from those responsible for the tragedy. The Odisha government must take immediate action to address the concerns of citizens and to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.
In conclusion, the Puri stampede is a tragic reminder of the importance of effective governance and responsible leadership. The Congress chief’s statement has highlighted the need for the Odisha government to take immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future. As we move forward, it is essential that we work towards creating a safer and more secure environment for all citizens, and that we hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable for their actions.
