Stampede at Puri’s Jagannath Rath Yatra Leaves Two Dead, Nearly 100 Injured

India: A chaotic stampede-like situation erupted during the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of two devotees and the hospitalization of nearly 100 others amid scenes of panic in the crowded streets of Puri, Odisha.

The incident occurred as massive crowds gathered to witness and participate in the sacred chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. Authorities said the surge happened when devotees rushed toward the chariots, leading to a crush in a congested area near the procession route.

Local officials confirmed that two people died on the spot or shortly after being taken to hospital, while scores of others suffered injuries ranging from minor bruises to serious trauma. Medical teams were rushed to the site, and injured devotees were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Several remain in critical condition, according to preliminary reports.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people pushed and fell in the melee, with police and volunteers struggling to control the surging crowds. “It happened so suddenly. Everyone was trying to get closer to the chariot and then there was a stampede,” said one devotee who narrowly escaped injury.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of India’s largest religious festivals, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from across the country and abroad. Heavy security arrangements are usually in place, but large gatherings often pose challenges during the pulling of the massive wooden chariots.

Senior police and district officials reached the spot immediately after the incident and initiated an investigation into the exact cause. Crowd management protocols and possible lapses are under review.

The Rath Yatra continues with heightened security measures in place following the tragedy.