The demand for the reopening of all the ‘dwaras’ (doors) of Puri Srimandir is growing louder with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Senior Congress leader, Narasingha Mishara demanding the same on Saturday.
Speaking to the media, Pradhan said, "The temple administration should reopen all the gates of Puri Srimandir as there is no Covid threat now. Puri residents have a unique connection with Lord Jagannath. The opening of all gates will allow the elderly persons, and women to visit the temple at their convenience.”
“The eviction of illegal encroachment under the Parikrama project has enhanced the beauty of the 12th-century shrine,” Pradhan added.
Seconding the Union Minister, senior Congress leader and Bolangir MLA Narasingha Mishra said, “People from all walks of life are demanding the reopening of all the four gates of Srimandir. I believe, the government will respect the public demand and open all the gates.”
Amid the brewing discontent, the ruling BJD said the four doors of the shrine will be opened at the appropriate time.
“The four doors of Puri Srimandir will be opened at the appropriate time. Currently, the Parikrama project work is in progress, so there is a threat of an accident,” Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Pramila Mallik said.
It is pertinent to mention here that at present devotees are only allowed inside Puri Jagannath Temple through the gate near Singhadwara. As a result, there is usually a huge rush and devotees have to wait for long hours to gain entry into the shrine.