Security measures surrounding the world-famous 12th-century Srimandir in Puri have once again come under intense scrutiny following the unauthorised sighting of a drone flying over the temple premises early Tuesday morning.
According to local reports, an unidentified drone was spotted hovering near the northern side of the shrine between 5:00 AM and 5:20 AM. Eyewitnesses noted that the device remained airborne for a brief period before moving towards the Grand Road (Bada Danda). Authorities strongly suspect that the drone was used to secretly record aerial videos of the temple, a blatant violation of established security protocols.
Strict No-Fly Zone Restrictions Ignored
The airspace directly above and surrounding the Srimandir has been officially designated as a Red Zone / No-Fly Zone by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to ensure absolute protection and sanctity. Restrictions are strictly enforced under current regulations, yet unauthorised drones continue to breach the perimeter. This persistent security lapse has triggered widespread resentment and anxiety among devotees and local residents, who question how such devices manage to bypass surveillance.
Investigation Underway
Local law enforcement and temple administration officials have swung into action, launching a comprehensive probe into the incident. Investigators are currently reviewing surrounding CCTV footage and tracking technical leads to identify the operator and locate where the drone was launched from.
Growing Demands for Anti-Drone Systems
Because this is not an isolated incident—similar unauthorised drone flights have been reported near the temple in the past—civil society groups and devotee forums are ramping up pressure on the administration. There are urgent calls to install robust, automated anti-drone defence systems around the temple complex to neutralise potential threats instantly.
As the police probe deepens, devotees and stakeholders await strict administrative action to ensure the safety and sanctity of one of India’s most revered shrines remains uncompromised.
