Will Puri's Shree Jagannath Temple Get an Anti-Drone Security System?

Enhanced Security Measures for Shree Jagannath Temple

Bhubaneswar: On Friday, the Odisha government announced plans to implement an anti-drone system aimed at enhancing security at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan stated that this technology would be capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing unauthorized or potentially harmful drones. He mentioned, “We are considering the installation of an anti-drone system for the temple's security, similar to measures taken by defense establishments.” The funding for this initiative will be sourced from the temple administration.

The decision comes after reports of YouTubers and vloggers using drones to capture images and videos of the ancient shrine, despite existing prohibitions. Additionally, the Puri Police are investigating claims related to Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana, who was arrested on espionage suspicions for allegedly flying a drone over the temple during her visit in 2024. In response to security concerns heightened by the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Odisha government has already increased police presence in Puri, deploying at least 240 officers around the temple. Furthermore, efforts are underway to appoint personnel for the newly established Swatantra Shree Mandir Surakshya Vahini (SSMSV), which consists of 1,083 armed members.