Puri: Allegations of a cover-up have surfaced following reports of the deaths of two devotees during the world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri, even as media personnel claimed they faced high-handed behaviour at the district hospital while covering the incident on Thursday.

According to reports, journalists who reached the hospital to verify the deaths were allegedly obstructed by some staff members and a security supervisor. Media personnel claimed they were denied entry into the premises and faced misbehaviour while attempting to gather information.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation from authorities regarding the reported deaths.

Sources said the two devotees fell ill during a stampede-like situation during the Pahandi ritual of the Rath Yatra and were immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. However, both reportedly died during treatment. Several others are said to have sustained injuries in the incident.

Meanwhile, allegations have been raised hospital authorities attempted to suppress information related to the deaths.

The reported high-handed behaviour by staff and security personnel has sparked concerns over transparency and accountability in handling the situation.