A drone video allegedly showing aerial visuals from inside the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri has gone viral again, triggering widespread criticism and serious concerns over temple security.
The footage, reportedly shared by “Ravi Telugu Traveller,” has reignited debate about repeated violations of the ban on drone flying near the shrine. Despite earlier assurances from Puri Police about installing anti-drone systems, such incidents continue to surface.
Government records reveal that drones were illegally operated at least ten times above and near the temple in the last 19 months. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan informed the Odisha Assembly that ten cases had been registered at Singhadwar Police Station since June 2025. While final forms were submitted in two cases, investigations in eight others remain ongoing.
According to the district administration’s order, flying drones above or near the temple is strictly prohibited and treated as an offence. However, the recurrence of viral footage indicates lapses in monitoring and enforcement.
The Puri Police and temple administration are currently verifying the authenticity of the latest footage and working to identify those responsible. Authorities emphasised that advanced anti-drone technology deployment remains a priority to safeguard the sanctity of the shrine.
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