A damning investigation has exposed a web of corruption behind the stampede at Puri’s Gundicha Temple, which claimed three lives and injured over 50.
Despite a ₹10 crore investment in 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras, the "eyes of security" were reportedly inactive during the crisis. Furthermore, a ₹1 crore integrated control room stood empty, with no officers present to manage the surging crowds.
The report highlights blatant negligence and the use of sub-standard equipment, suggesting high-level embezzlement involving senior officials and contractors. Shockingly, nine months later, no action has been taken.
Instead of facing penalties, implicated individuals have allegedly been rewarded with lucrative postings, sparking public outrage.
This isn't just an administrative failure; it’s a systemic betrayal. As the government remains silent on the findings, the families of the deceased are left asking: when will justice outweigh the interests of the corrupt?
This tragedy stands as a grim testament to how greed can compromise the sanctity of devotion.