In response to a recent controversy at the Shree Jagannath Temple, the temple administration has imposed stringent rules on mobile phone usage and protocol darshan procedures.
Chief Administrator Arabinda K. Padhee announced that no one will be allowed to openly use mobile phones inside the temple premises. Only on-duty servitors (sevayats) are permitted to carry mobile phones, while all others are strictly prohibited from doing so.
The decision follows a high-level meeting chaired by Padhee today, addressing a contentious incident that occurred on Sunday involving protocol darshan. During the scuffle at the temple’s steps area, servitors and security personnel clashed due to a lack of coordination. Expressing regret over the event, Padhee stated, “We apologise for yesterday’s incident and express our sorrow. An investigation will be conducted by the Puri SP, and temple administrative officials will also review the matter. Strict action will be taken against those found guilty.”
To prevent future occurrences, the administration has emphasised enhanced awareness and coordination among all stakeholders. Protocol darshan responsibilities will now solely rest with the Shree Mandir administration, with detailed records maintained for all such visitors. Additionally, the temple plans to request the state government to fill vacant positions in the Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) and the temple’s special security force promptly. Monthly coordination meetings involving all relevant officials will be held to ensure smooth operations.
The meeting was attended by Puri District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, SP Prateek Singh, temple administration officials, the temple’s special security force commander, and JTP representatives.
In a related development, the temple administration has cracked down on the unauthorised use of ghee in temple rituals. A seven-day notice has been issued to the Suar Mahasuar Nijog (servitors’ association) and specific individuals—Rabindra Barik from Puri’s Beer Harekrushnapur and Jambeswar Suar—demanding a satisfactory explanation for bringing open ghee from outside sources into the temple premises. The ghee, which was not the authorised OMFED brand, was seized by the administration.
Padhee reiterated a prior directive that only OMFED ghee is permitted inside the Shree Mandir, with no exceptions allowed for open or branded ghee from external sources. “Strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to bring unauthorised ghee into the temple,” he warned. Senior supervisors and the temple commander have been instructed to enforce this rule rigorously, and the Suar Mahasuar Nijog has been informed accordingly.
These measures underscore the administration’s commitment to maintaining sanctity, security, and traditional protocols at one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
