A fresh controversy has erupted in Puri over the imposition of high parking fees at Bhakta Nivas facilities near the Jagannath Temple.
Devotees and visitors expressed strong dissatisfaction, calling the fee exploitative and unjustified. Many described it as a form of “financial burden” on pilgrims who come to the holy town for darshan of Lord Jagannath. Local residents also criticised the move, terming it unreasonable.
The issue has sparked widespread debate in Puri. So far, neither the temple administration nor related authorities have issued any clarification.
Reports indicate that the temple administration has implemented the parking fee across four Bhakta Nivas facilities. According to the official notification, visitors must now pay Rs 500 plus 18% GST for parking. The decision has drawn sharp criticism, with BJD vice-president Sanjay Kumar Das Burma opposing the move. He alleged that the administration is exploiting devotees and tarnishing the spiritual image of Puri and Odisha.
The controversy comes at a time when accommodation at Bhakta Nivas has already become more expensive. The additional parking fee has further angered devotees, who accuse the administration of profiting from religious sentiments. The new rule, effective from January 7, marks the first time such a high parking fee has been introduced at these facilities.
