Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi strongly criticized ISKCON for organizing untimely Rath Yatra celebrations that disregard the rituals and traditions of Lord Jagannath.
He said the government will take necessary steps to address the issue, keeping in mind the sentiments of 4.5 crore Odias.
Majhi emphasised that every festival and ritual of Lord Jagannath has its own sanctity and timing. He noted that the deity’s calendar includes 13 major festivals in 12 months, each governed by established traditions. He accused ISKCON of violating these norms and undermining the cultural heritage of Odisha.
The Chief Minister pointed out that Gajapati Maharaja has repeatedly expressed concern over ISKCON’s practices, while Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration have also raised objections. He said the government has taken these concerns seriously and will act accordingly.
Majhi warned that Lord Jagannath does not tolerate arrogance and cited past examples where attempts to replicate the sanctity of Puri failed. He said those who disrespect traditions with negative intent will face consequences.
