A tragic stampede outside Puri’s Gundicha Temple claimed three lives, with survivors criticizing the police for their inadequate response. Witnesses allege that officers prioritized their own safety over aiding those who had fallen during the chaos. The incident unfolded as a large crowd gathered for a religious event, leading to overcrowding in the temple vicinity. Compounding the situation, trucks attempting to navigate through the congested area further intensified the disorder. Additionally, slippery wooden logs contributed to the difficulty in managing the crowd, highlighting significant lapses in safety measures and crowd control protocols. The stampede has sparked widespread concern over the preparedness and effectiveness of local authorities in handling large gatherings, especially during significant religious events. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved crowd management strategies and better coordination among law enforcement agencies to prevent such tragedies in the future. As investigations continue, there is a growing demand for accountability and reforms to ensure public safety during mass gatherings.