The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has stepped in to address the growing concerns over the deteriorating state of the revered Baladevjew Temple in Kendrapara, Odisha.
Authorities in the district, including the Collector and Superintendent of Police, have been issued notices, demanding an action-taken report within four weeks.
The intervention follows a petition by human rights activist and lawyer Radhakanta Tripathy, who has highlighted various issues plaguing the temple premises. Among the complaints are non-functional CCTV cameras, alcohol consumption within the sacred grounds, unsanitary facilities, and storage of unrelated items in religious spaces like the Jhulan Mandap and Snana Mandap.
Despite the Odisha government’s widespread efforts to renovate temples across the state, Baladevjew Temple—also known as Tulasi Khetra—has suffered prolonged neglect. Notably, the temple manages the second-largest endowment trust board in Odisha after the Jagannath Temple in Puri, adding to its administrative and cultural significance.
Tripathy has accused local authorities, including the temple’s Endowment Trust Board and district administration, of failing to maintain security and cleanliness. He further pointed out that of the 40 CCTV cameras installed on the premises, only 12 are functional, leaving the temple vulnerable to security threats.
As devotees continue to express concerns, NHRC’s directive signals a crucial intervention that may bring overdue changes to safeguard the temple’s integrity.
