The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration suspended Chhatar Sevak Ranjit Kar for issuing a fake receipt to a devotee.
Officials confirmed that Kar misled Hyderabad-based devotee Bijendra Kedia by showing him a forged document that claimed permission to hoist a ritual flag (Bana) atop the Neelachakra.
Investigators revealed that Kar collected around Rs 5,600 from the devotee for the service. When the receipt was verified, authorities discovered it had not been issued by the temple office. Kar admitted to the wrongdoing during questioning by the temple supervisor.
The administration issued a show-cause notice and reviewed his explanation. Since his reply failed to satisfy officials, SJTA suspended him with immediate effect. The suspension order states that Kar will remain barred from duty for six months.
The temple administration warned that if Kar attempts to bribe, lure, or intimidate other sevaks during the suspension period, stricter disciplinary action will follow. Officials stressed that such misconduct undermines the sanctity of rituals and damages the trust of devotees.
The suspension highlights SJTA’s firm stance against irregularities inside the temple premises. By acting swiftly, the administration aims to protect the integrity of rituals and reassure devotees about transparency in temple practices.
