SJTA proposes stringent law to curb unauthorised photography in prohibited areas of Sri Jagannath Temple
Puri, Aug 6 (UNI) The Sri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has decided to urge the Odisha government to enact stringent legislation, complete with penal provisions, to prevent unauthorised photography and videography within the restricted areas of the Sri Jagannath Temple.
The move comes in the wake of multiple violations, including the uploading of videos related to temple rituals on social media platforms. In response, police had previously issued notices and taken action against offenders.
Just last week, two individuals were caught using spy cameras concealed in sunglasses to record visuals inside the temple premises.
In a separate incident last month, drone footage showing the tying of the temple flag on the mast went viral, along with several other internal scenes from the temple.
Currently, due to the absence of strict prosecution guidelines, violators are often let off with warnings or small fines. In most such cases, police deleted the recorded footage from the devices used.
To create a more deterrent legal framework, the SJTA is seriously considering the introduction of stricter rules and penalties.
A meeting regarding temple security was held on Tuesday, chaired by SJTA Chief Administrator Aravind Padhi. The temple security officer, other senior officials, and key servitors also participated in the discussion.
According to sources, the SJTA has proposed the following key measures:
– Imposing severe penalties for unauthorised photography and any attempt to tarnish the sanctity of the Lords or the temple, with punishment extending up to seven years of imprisonment.
– Flying drones or using electronic devices in restricted zones to be classified as non-bailable offences.
The SJTA has submitted four major proposals to the state government concerning the security of the 12th-century shrine, which is also a nationally protected monument.
Among the proposals is a recommendation to amend the Shree Jagannath Temple Act to incorporate these new provisions.
Temple sources indicated that these proposals will be thoroughly discussed in the upcoming Managing Committee meeting before being officially submitted to the state government.
