TV
As Odisha prepares for the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, a serious administrative lapse is under the spotlight. It has been over nine months since the tenure of the previous Shri Jagannath Temple Managing Committee ended, yet the formation of a new committee remains pending. This unprecedented delay has raised concerns, most notably from Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb himself.
In an exclusive interview with OTV, the Gajapati Maharaja-considered the foremost servitor of Lord Jagannath, termed the inordinate delay 'historic' and expressed disappointment over the government’s inaction, despite repeated requests and letters sent to the Chief Minister since July of last year.
"This kind of inordinate delay has never happened in history and it should not happen like this," said Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb.
"We have requested the government to form the new management committee umpteen times by writing letters and personal meetings. However, things have not materialised due to certain reasons," he added.
Legal tangles and government response
The Law Minister has attributed the delay to a pending case in the High Court filed by a servitor over selection disputes in the new committee. However, critics argue that the state’s Law Department has not taken a firm stand in court, leading to prolonged uncertainty. Allegations also suggest the government is adopting a lackadaisical approach towards temple administration.
Notably, the last managing committee meeting was held in August 2024 - right after last year’s Rath Yatra. As per the Shri Jagannath Temple Act of 1955, the managing committee must meet every two months, but no such meetings have occurred in the last nine months.
Administrative concerns mount ahead of major festivals
With the upcoming Rath Yatra, Bahuda Yatra, and Niladri Bije festivals around the corner, there is rising unease over the absence of a full-fledged committee to oversee rituals, budgeting, and sensitive decisions like Ratna Bhandar inventory and land disputes.
"Due to the absence of the managing committee, many important works like daily rituals, budgeting and other things are getting affected," said Madhaba Chandra Mohapatra, member of the earlier managing committee.
Must Read: Discussions with ISKCON underway for Rath Yatra as per Puri Srimandir timelines: Gajapati Maharaja
The lack of a functional committee has already stalled crucial matters such as temple budgeting and resolution of ISKCON Rath Yatra disputes, drone regulations, and land conflicts. The Gajapati Maharaja has warned that the continued absence of the committee risks impacting the sanctity and smooth execution of these grand traditions.
Law Minister assures stability
Despite growing concern, the Law Minister has assured that the upcoming Rath Yatra will proceed without hindrance and that efforts are underway to resolve the legal impasse. On April 29, he had promised that the committee would be formed within a week, a deadline that has now long passed.
"A servitor has moved court over the selection of some Nijoga members in the managing committee. Hence, the process has been delayed as the matter is sub-judice," said Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan.
"Though the High Court has ordered the Law Department to produce necessary documents over the case, the department has not taken necessary steps in this regard yet," said Hajuri Krushnachandra Khuntia, who has moved the Court over the matter.
As Odisha counts down to its biggest religious celebration, the delay in forming the statutory temple committee has sparked widespread debate on governance, legal delays, and cultural accountability.
