The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) suspended three servitors (temple priests) from their temple duties over allegations of collecting money from devotees and violating temple discipline. The order of suspension was issued by the Chief Administrator of the temple.
According to reports, ‘Suara Badu’ servitor Narayan Panda and Khuntia servitor Rajaram Khuntia have been suspended for allegedly collecting money from devotees in an unauthorised manner inside the Natamandap (dance hall). The duo reportedly accepted money from pilgrims near the Bahar Katha area last month, violating temple rules, and later engaged in a heated dispute among themselves over the amount collected.
In another instance, Bena Mahasuara, another temple servitor, has been suspended for two months for allegedly promoting the use of Dalda (hydrogenated oil) within the temple premises—a practice strictly prohibited in rituals associated with the Lords.
The temple administration has warned the servitors concerned to refrain from creating or instigating any form of disorder within the temple.
Any sort of attempt to violate the suspension order will result in an extension of the suspension period and more stringent disciplinary action.
The SJTA has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining discipline, purity, and decorum in all temple-related activities. It has promised to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the sacred shrine.
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