NHRC Seeks Action Over Lingaraj Temple Accident During Maha Shivratri

(OT Webdesk)The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an inquiry into the February 26 mishap at Bhubaneswar’s revered Shree Lingaraj Temple during Maha Shivratri festivities.

Servitor Jogendra Samartha suffered critical injuries after falling nearly 20 feet while hoisting the sacred Mahadeepa, a ritual centrepiece.

Following a formal complaint by human rights activist Akhand, the NHRC issued notices to the Khurda District Magistrate and Odisha Home Department’s Special Secretary, demanding an Action Taken Report (ATR) within a week.

Besides Samartha, two priests and a police official sustained minor burns during a hot oil spill amid the same ceremony.

All the injured were treated at the Capital Hospital.

The commission is set to conduct a camp sitting in Bhubaneswar on July 21, where the victim or representatives are expected to attend.

The episode has ignited broader concern over safety procedures and risk protocols for servitors—especially the elderly—during intense heritage rituals.

As public attention builds, the state’s response may set a precedent for protective reforms at historic religious sites.