In the wake of the tragic stampede that occurred during the annual Shree Lairai Devi Zatra on May 2, which resulted in six fatalities, the temple's managing committee has denied responsibility for the incident, instead attributing the blame to local authorities.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Shree Lairai Devi Temple committee president Dinanath "Dina" Gaonkar stated that the Shirgao Village Panchayat, the Bicholim Deputy Collector, and the State Administration were accountable for the mismanagement that led to the deadly chaos.
Gaonkar further announced that, beginning next year, the committee will prohibit stalls from being set up along the main lane leading to the temple — an area that was reportedly overcrowded during the event.
In addition to addressing the stampede, Gaonkar launched fresh allegations against former committee president Ganesh Gaonkar, accusing him of misusing temple funds and property for personal gain. He claimed that the former president failed to contribute to any meaningful development during his three-year tenure. Responding to the accusations, Ganesh Gaonkar firmly rejected the claims. “We had taken proactive measures, including setting up barricades as advised by the then Bicholim Mamlatdar and PI. Devotees were satisfied with the arrangements,” he said, adding that video evidence and official meeting minutes support his version of events. He further alleged that members of the current managing committee, including Dinanath Gaonkar, had obstructed temple development during his tenure.
Ganesh Gaonkar also clarified that the previous stampede incident being cited actually took place nine years ago and involved only a minor injury. He claimed that the responsibility for the recent tragedy lies with the current committee and not with the State administration.
“I have provided all necessary documentation and evidence to the fact-finding committee investigating the incident,” he added.
The investigation into the stampede is ongoing, with both parties standing firm on their claims as the community awaits answers.