Leadership Shifts in Puri After Rath Yatra Tragedy: New Appointments Amid Inquiry

In the aftermath of a tragic stampede during Puri's Jagannath Rath Yatra, which resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries, the Odisha government has made significant administrative changes. Pinak Mishra has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Police, and Chanchal Rana takes over as District Collector, following directives from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Chief Minister Majhi has called for a thorough administrative inquiry into the incident, to be overseen by the Development Commissioner, and has urged for accountability and proper action against those found negligent. Mishra, the newly appointed SP, emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines for a peaceful completion of the Yatra.

Alongside these changes, Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhi have been suspended for dereliction of duty. The stampede incident has prompted the Chief Minister to offer financial assistance to the victims' families and vow robust measures to prevent future occurrences.

(With inputs from agencies.)