Digha temple row: Law Minister assures swift action, slams BJD for destroying ‘seva’ atmosphere in Puri

Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the newly inaugurated Jagannath Temple in Digha, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday issued a firm statement asserting that stringent action will be taken promptly upon completion of the ongoing investigation. 

The Minister emphasized that the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has been entrusted with the responsibility to initiate appropriate measures against those found guilty of misrepresenting or misusing Jagannath culture.

Odisha Getting Support From All Quarters

Addressing the media, Harichandan remarked that the Odisha Government’s recent actions to uphold the sanctity of Lord Jagannath’s identity have received widespread support from both the people of Odisha and West Bengal. He strongly refuted the portrayal of the Digha temple as a "Jagannath Dham," calling it completely misleading and culturally inappropriate.

Also Read: WB govt stooping new low by labelling Digha temple as Jagannath Dham: Suvendu Adhikari 

The Minister further informed that he would soon be writing to the Chief Minister of West Bengal, urging corrective measures from their administration to address the controversy and avoid any future misrepresentation of the revered Puri Jagannath Dham.

Law Minister Targets BJD

Taking a direct swipe at the previous BJD-led government, Harichandan accused it of having created a “poor precedent in the management and service of the Puri”, which he believes weakened institutional discipline and accountability over the years. He criticized their handling of temple affairs, particularly in the sensitive domain of religious traditions and heritage.

While the Law Minister has taken a proactive stance on the issue, no official response has yet been received from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). The party, which held power in Odisha for over two decades, is yet to comment on either the Digha controversy or the criticism levied against its past administration.

The Digha temple, which recently came under public scrutiny for allegedly imitating the appearance and symbolism of the Puri Jagannath Temple, has sparked cultural and political tensions. The Odisha Government has already ordered an investigation into the matter, aiming to preserve the uniqueness of the Puri shrine, which is considered one of the holiest sites in Hinduism and an integral part of Odia identity.

As the probe continues, the Law Minister's firm statements indicate a clear resolve to protect religious heritage, prevent misappropriation, and hold accountable any attempts to dilute or distort sacred traditions.