Puri Srimandir To Get Stricter Rules: SJTA Proposes Amendments To Temple Act

The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri had an important conference on Tuesday to talk about the Srimandir legal system. Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), told the media that a request to change the temple laws would be presented to the state government because the current legislation does not provide for severe penalties. Four main points are included in the proposal:

– Using a mobile phone intentionally within the temple premises will attract punishment, with the current fine of Rs. 1000 likely to be increased.

– Deliberately violating the cultural dignity of Mahaprabhu Jagannath or posting content on social media that hurts the religious sentiments of devotees will lead to strict punishment, including non-bailable arrest warrants for up to 7 years.

– Unauthorised drone flying over the temple will be met with strict punishment and Non-Bailable Warrants (NBW).

– Punishment can be imposed under the Temple Act 1955 on the advice of the temple management committee, which may include imprisonment for up to three years.

The SJTA aims to maintain the sanctity and dignity of the temple, and these proposed amendments are expected to strengthen the existing laws and regulations. The proposal will be submitted to the state government for approval.