BHUBANESWAR: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has initiated a series of major administrative measures, including disciplinary action against servitors, a comprehensive review of ongoing development projects ahead of upcoming religious events, including the Rath Yatra.
Suspension of Servitor Over Ritual Disruption
The SJTA has suspended a Khuntia servitor for three months following an incident on February 28 that delayed daily temple rituals by nearly four hours. According to official sources, indiscipline and disruptive behaviour by certain servitors led to significant interruptions in the temple’s routine religious activities.
The disruption caused inconvenience to devotees, many of whom were unable to receive Mahaprasad at the scheduled time. Complaints were also received regarding alleged disrespectful conduct towards temple administration officials and staff during the incident.
SJTA Chief Administrator Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee sought written explanations from the involved Khuntia servitors — Ramakrushna Khuntia, Madhab Khuntia, and Madhusudan Khuntia. After reviewing their responses along with statements from concerned administrative personnel, Dr Padhee issued a formal order.
Ramakrushna Khuntia has been suspended for three months and will not be permitted to participate in any temple services or rituals during this period. The order further warns that if he incites others, threatens other servitors or individuals, or obstructs temple services and policies, the suspension may be extended, his ritual rights (including ‘shadhi bandha’) may be revoked, and stricter disciplinary measures will follow.
The other two servitors, Madhab Khuntia and Madhusudan Khuntia, have received conditional pardons. However, they have been strictly cautioned that any recurrence of misconduct will invite severe action.
Dr Padhee noted that the majority of servitors cooperate effectively to ensure the smooth functioning of temple activities and implementation of administrative decisions. He expressed concern over disruptions caused by a small number of individuals and reiterated that indiscipline or interference with temple rituals will not be tolerated within the sacred premises.
Review of Development Works Ahead of Rath Yatra
With only three months remaining for the annual Rath Yatra, the SJTA also conducted a detailed review of ongoing infrastructure and development projects in Puri.
During the meeting, Dr Padhee assessed the progress of work at Shree Gundicha Temple, where several construction projects remain incomplete. These include the Ballav House, Tuniya Mahal, and the kitchen (Rasaghara) annex. Officials directed that all construction activities be completed before the festival begins and that the structures adhere to the traditional Kalinga architectural style.
The review also covered pending works at the Jagannath Ballabh Pilgrim Centre and the Baseli Sahi Dharmashala, both intended to improve accommodation and facilities for pilgrims.
Additionally, the meeting decided to expedite the installation of permanent security fencing at project sites earmarked for the proposed model gurukul at Jagannath Ballabh Pramod Udyan and Matitota. Authorities emphasised that these measures are essential to ensure safety, proper crowd management, and timely completion of projects.
The meeting was attended by Anupam Shah, Managing Director of OBCC, and Divyajyoti Parida, District Collector of Puri. Officials collectively stressed the importance of completing all works within the stipulated timeframe to enhance amenities for devotees and ensure seamless festival arrangements.
Senior Officer Assigned for Rath Yatra 2026 Security Planning
In a separate development, senior IPS officer Soumendra Priyadarshi has been entrusted with overseeing preparations for Rath Yatra 2026 in Puri, according to sources from Police Headquarters.
The assignment aims to ensure the smooth, secure, and well-coordinated conduct of the globally renowned festival, which draws lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad each year.
As part of his responsibilities, Priyadarshi will supervise law and order arrangements, traffic management, crowd control measures, and overall security both inside and outside the temple premises. Authorities believe this appointment will strengthen inter-departmental coordination and enhance operational planning for the large-scale event.
Given the massive influx of pilgrims during the grand chariot procession, comprehensive security measures are critical to maintaining order and ensuring devotees’ safety.
Focus on Discipline and Timely Execution
The developments highlight the administration’s dual focus on maintaining strict discipline within temple management and accelerating infrastructure projects ahead of major religious events. Officials reiterated that the timely execution of works, effective coordination, and adherence to regulations are essential to preserving the sanctity of the temple and ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for devotees.
With preparations intensifying for the upcoming Rath Yatra, authorities have emphasised that both administrative discipline and infrastructural readiness remain top priorities in the coming months.
