Odisha's Bold Move: Non-Vegetarian Food and Alcohol to be Banned Near Jagannath Temple

New Regulations for Puri's Sacred Area
Bhubaneswar: The government of Odisha has announced a prohibition on the sale of non-vegetarian food and alcoholic beverages within a 2-kilometer radius of the Jagannath temple in Puri, as stated by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday.
During a press briefing, Harichandan explained that this measure is part of a larger effort by the state to maintain the sanctity of the revered town.
He emphasized, "A total ban on the sale of meat and liquor, including in bars, will be implemented within a 2-km radius of the Jagannath temple."
The minister also noted that there will be no liquor outlets or bars along the Grand Road, which links the Jagannath temple to the Gundicha temple, and that the sale of meat and non-vegetarian items will be prohibited on this road.
However, the exact date for the implementation of this ban has not been disclosed.
Additionally, the government is considering standardizing the height and design of all buildings along the Grand Road.
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has previously requested the Housing and Urban Development Department to establish guidelines for uniform architectural styles for structures surrounding the temple.