What New Security Measures Are Being Implemented at Puri's Jagannath Temple?

In light of recent security breaches, the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee has formed a sub-committee led by Girish Chandra Murmu to enhance security at the historic shrine. The committee will work on implementing a queue system for devotees and has received permission for air conditioning in the temple's dancing hall. With various sub-committees established to address different aspects of temple governance, the SJTMC aims to ensure the safety and smooth operation of rituals. The upcoming 'Dhadi darshan' is set to begin by mid-September, pending final approvals.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 3, 2025, 21:17 IST

Strengthening Security at Jagannath Temple

Puri: In response to recent security incidents, the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC) has established a sub-committee led by Girish Chandra Murmu, the former Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to enhance the temple's security measures.

During its inaugural meeting, chaired by the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, Dibya Singha Deb, the committee recognized the necessity of this sub-committee due to multiple security breaches reported in recent months.

Murmu, who has previously served as the Comptroller and Auditor General, will oversee the sub-committee's efforts to bolster the shrine's security, which has become a target for terrorist organizations, as indicated by intelligence reports.

The sub-committee will include the Puri Collector, Superintendent of Police, and temple servitors to assist in its mission.

Arabinda Padhee, the chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), mentioned that the sub-committee may expand its membership if needed to fulfill its objectives.

Additionally, a separate sub-committee has been formed, led by the Puri Collector, to implement the 'Dhadi darshan' (queue system) at the Natamandap (inner sanctum) of the temple.

Padhee stated that a total of 14 sub-committees have been established, including four statutory ones focused on finance, rituals, Ratna Bhandar, and appeals, to guide the SJTMC on various temple governance issues.

The managing committee has approved a pilot implementation of the 'Dhadi darshan' system, with preparations underway to launch it soon.

A nine-member committee, chaired by the Puri Collector, will evaluate the plan from multiple perspectives and engage in discussions with all stakeholders to ensure that the installation of ramps and barricades does not disrupt the temple's rituals.

The committee is tasked with providing recommendations and developing a standard operating procedure (SOP) for the effective execution of the queue system.

Meanwhile, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has granted permission for air conditioning in the Nata mandapa (dancing hall) of the temple.

Odisha's Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan announced that efforts are underway to initiate the 'Dhadi darshan' by September 15, pending SJTMC approval for relocating the hundi (donation box) from the Natyamandap.

Padhee also noted that arrangements are being made at the north door (Uttara Dwara) to facilitate easier access for elderly devotees and those with disabilities by constructing ramps.

Each sub-committee includes members from the management committee, and additional sub-committees have been created for various purposes, including research and publication, servitor welfare, land protection, and cultural initiatives related to Lord Jagannath.

The Gajapati Maharaja will chair the cultural committee, which will include several nominated members.

A sub-committee for the Shree Jagannath Temple Pension Trust Board has also been established, along with an institutional sub-committee and a Rules (Bidhi) sub-committee.

For any new proposals or amendments to the Sri Jagannath Temple Act of 1955, the chief administrator will lead the committee, with other members appointed, including prominent state lawyers for land protection.

A Niti Coordination Committee has been formed, with the Niti administrator serving as its chair.

The SJTMC's first meeting also addressed concerns regarding the ISKCON's untimely Rath Yatra.

Padhee expressed dissatisfaction over the use of 'Jagannath Dham' in Digha and announced a press conference on September 6, where the Gajapati Maharaj will discuss the Rath Yatra and Snana Yatra. The governing body of ISKCON will be instructed to prevent misuse of the term 'Jagannath Dham.'

The management committee has also approved the placement of the Puri Chariots' wheels in Parliament House and discussed the operation of a breastfeeding center within the temple.