This year’s Rath Yatra in Puri was plagued by significant disruptions, breaking with long-standing tradition. The chariot of Lord Jagannath, Nandighosha, moved only a short distance, and the procession faced severe challenges. The distribution of passes has been identified as a major contributor to the chaos, leading to overcrowding within the security cordon and hindering the movement of the chariots. Opposition parties have strongly criticized the government, pointing to the failure to maintain order and uphold the traditions. The lack of progress and the inability to complete the yatra as planned have resulted in widespread disappointment among devotees. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed his concerns and urged for an introspection of the entire incident. The event witnessed injuries among devotees and instances of violence against journalists, adding to the public outcry. The government is facing questions over its handling of the event, and a thorough investigation has been demanded. Allegations suggest the involvement of key figures in the distribution of passes, leading to further scrutiny. The public’s sentiments are closely tied to the Rath Yatra, and any failures are met with strong criticism, underlining the importance of the event to the people of Odisha. The government is under pressure to address the issues and ensure the smooth conduct of future yatras, particularly after a prior incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency.
