Majhi issues 10-point directive for Rath Yatra, focus on crowd control & safety

Bhubaneswar: In the run-up to the upcoming Rath Yatra in Puri on July 16, chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday issued a 10-point directive to govt officials and police, stressing flawless management of the annual festival.The govt’s emphasis on zero-error arrangements comes against the backdrop of last year’s June 29 stampede — on the third day of the Rath Yatra — that led to the death of three devotees in front of the chariots outside Gundicha Temple.Reviewing final preparations in Puri, Majhi emphasised timely conduct of rituals, seamless inter-departmental coordination, safety of devotees, crowd control, traffic management, healthcare and mobility.Learning from past lapses, he ordered Puri district collector Dibya Jyoti Parida to cap the number of ‘inner cordon’ passes around the chariots strictly. “Inner cordon passes must be issued only to duty-bound servitors and officials. Not a single extra pass should be distributed beyond the prescribed limit. Anyone making unauthorised entry must be politely evicted by police personnel,” Majhi said.On women’s safety, he warned offenders of stern consequences.

“Those who attempt to ill-treat women in the crowd should be taught such a lesson that they will think twice before committing such a heinous offence again,” he said.Majhi underscored crowd management and security as priority areas. “Artificial intelligence (AI) and drone cameras will be deployed, but the police must ensure the technology is used to its fullest. Camera feeds should be monitored round the clock, and updates shared swiftly with seniors in case of emergencies.

Police must also foil any subversive designs or terror threats. Foolproof arrangements are non-negotiable,” Majhi said.The chief minister directed police to intensify vigilance on social media to curb rumours and hate messages linked to the festival.Authorities were asked to ensure robust traffic control, emergency medical support, ambulance corridors and uninterrupted basic services. Majhi concluded with a spiritual reminder: “Lord Jagannath resides in every heart. The eyes of the world are upon this festival. Ensuring a safe Rath Yatra is not just a govt duty — it is a collective moral responsibility. Every official must carry out their tasks with sincerity and dedication, treating their work as service to the Lord.

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