Police Nab 12 Fake Sevayats Extorting Devotees at Puri Srimandir
(OT Webdesk)In a decisive crackdown to safeguard pilgrims and preserve the sanctity of Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri Police arrested 12 individuals posing as sevayats on August 9 and 10, 2025.
The accused, dressed in traditional attire, targeted non-Odiya devotees near Badadanda and Parikrama Road, offering unauthorised darshan and puja services for money.
Upon refusal, they resorted to threats and abusive behaviour, creating a hostile environment around the temple.
Acting on credible intelligence, a special police team led by the Puri SP apprehended the group and seized 14 mobile phones, Rs 20,000 in cash, and other items.
The arrested individuals—none of whom had any legitimate affiliation with temple rituals—were booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and have been forwarded to court.
This operation underscores the administration’s commitment to protecting devotees and maintaining order at one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
