The controversy surrounding the newly built Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, has deepened as Odisha’s Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has taken decisive action.
Concerns over unauthorised idol construction and misleading associations with Puri’s revered Jagannath temple have sparked outrage among devotees and religious leaders.
SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee has initiated high-level meetings with senior servitors, including the Badagrahis, the Chhatisa Nijog, and temple functionaries responsible for deity construction. Notices have already been served to key individuals such as Ramakrushna Das Mahapatra, secretary of the Daitapati Nijog, seeking clarification on their involvement in the Digha event.
Religious authorities have strongly condemned the alleged use of ‘Balaka’ wood—sacred neem wood meant for Puri’s Srimandir rituals—to craft an idol in Digha. Janardhan Pattajoshi Mahapatra has warned that any deviation from prescribed religious practices for idol-making could mislead devotees and distort centuries-old traditions.
There have been calls for Odisha’s government to intervene by urging West Bengal authorities to halt activities at the Digha temple, ensuring no misinformation spreads among worshippers. With tensions rising, all eyes are now on SJTA’s next steps and any potential legal measures to safeguard Jagannath traditions.
