Bhubaneswar, June 29: In a significant move to ensure seamless security and crowd management during the 2025 Rath Yatra, the Odisha government has appointed senior IPS officer S.K. Priyadarshi to oversee the overall police arrangements in Puri. Priyadarshi, who currently serves as Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Modernization, will be responsible for all security and coordination efforts surrounding the annual festival and associated rituals of Lord Jagannath.

The directive was issued on Sunday by the Director General & Inspector General of Police (D.G. & I.G.) from the DGP’s Camp Office in Puri. The appointment is effective immediately and modifies an earlier order issued by the State Police Headquarters on April 17, 2025.

“In partial modification of the State Police Headquarters order issued vide Memo No. 2079/con dated 17/4/2025, Shri S.K. Priyadarshi, IPS, ADGP Modernization, Odisha, will remain in overall charge of the General Police Arrangement regarding Rath Yatra and related rituals, celebrations, and festivals of Lord Sri Jagannath at Puri in 2025,” the notification read.

The decision underscores the government’s focus on strengthening security and improving coordination ahead of the massive religious gathering.

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