Protocol breach! ASI uploads Puri Jagannath Temple’s inner sanctum photos on social media, deletes them later

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has come under fire for uploading internal photographs of the Puri Shree Jagannath Temple’s sacred premises, including the recently renovated Ratna Bhandar, on social media.

According to reports, the ASI had uploaded several high-resolution images showcasing the restored Ratna Bhandar, Bhog Mandap entrance, Satpahacha steps, and Ghanti Dwara.

These visuals, posted to celebrate the completion of the 95-day restoration work, also clearly displayed the interior layout of the temple, a zone where mobile phones and cameras are strictly prohibited under existing temple security guidelines.

The ASI has since deleted the photographs following widespread backlash. However, screenshots of the posts had already gone viral, drawing sharp criticism from devotees, servitors and heritage watchers alike.

Questions Raised Over Procedural Lapse

Concerns are now being raised as to how the ASI, the same agency entrusted with the temple’s structural protection, permitted such sensitive imagery to be captured and disseminated publicly.

Devotees on social media noted that even servitors are not allowed to carry phones or cameras inside the sanctum, making it unclear under what provisions ASI officials captured and shared the visuals.

Restoration Highlights Amid the Controversy

The social media posts were originally meant to showcase the successful completion of the Ratna Bhandar restoration, a crucial structural project carried out over 333 work hours across 95 days.

According to SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, the project included the replacement of 520 large granite stones, reinforcement with nine stainless steel beams inside and six beams outside, and structural consolidation for long-term durability.

While the core repair work is complete, final touches, including interior illumination and beautification, are still pending, officials said.

Despite the controversy, no official statement has yet emerged from either the ASI or the temple administration addressing whether there will be any internal inquiry into the breach.