Tension at Puri Srimandir: Sevayats and Security Personnel Clash Over Protocol

Puri, January 4: A tense situation unfolded at the Satapahacha of the Jagannath Temple on Sunday when sevayats strongly opposed certain protocol arrangements made by security personnel.

The confrontation escalated after allegations surfaced that temple security staff misbehaved and even pushed the Srimandir Commander, sparking outrage among members of the Jagannath Temple Police (JTP).

In protest, the JTP closed the Jay-Vijay Gate, halting darshan for devotees for nearly 30 minutes.

The disruption caused anxiety among the large crowd that had gathered, particularly as the temple had witnessed heavy footfall since early December.

District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and senior temple administration officials rushed to the spot and intervened promptly.

Their efforts led to the reopening of the Jay-Vijay Gate, restoring darshan for devotees.

The incident highlighted the ongoing friction between sevayats and security forces over protocol enforcement.

It also raised serious concerns about crowd management and coordination during peak darshan hours, especially after security forces reportedly broke one of the seven barricade lines, worsening congestion near the Satapahacha.

Temple authorities are expected to review the matter to prevent similar disruptions in the future, as devotees and stakeholders call for better coordination between sevayats and security personnel.