Ranchi man detained after attempting to scale Puri Srimandir amid security threats

A couple of days after threatening messages about a possible attack on Puri Srimandir were discovered on the wall of a temple in Heritage Corridor (Parikrama Prakalpa) Marg, a man attempted to scale the 12th-century shrine on Saturday, raising concern over the security arrangements.

According to sources, the individual was intercepted by the Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) and servitors before he could climb further. The accused has been identified as Pancham Mahot from the Ranchi region. 

Mahot allegedly climbed approximately five feet from the Beharan gate when he was apprehended by the temple police. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) noted that the man’s mental condition appears to be unstable. He is currently in police custody at Singhadwara Police Station, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the motive behind the attempt.

This is not the first security breach at Jagannath Temple. Earlier, a person from Ganjam had attempted to scale the temple walls, raising serious concerns about the temple’s safety arrangements. Repeated incidents have sparked questions about whether current security measures are adequate, prompting authorities to review and enhance vigilance protocols.

Also Read: Terror threat to Puri Srimandir! Threatening graffiti sparks fresh security concerns

Recently on Wednesday, disturbing graffiti, issuing a threat to the Srimandir, were seen in two locations on the wall of the Budhi Maa Thakurani temple. These scribbles also contained the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raising alarm among locals and authorities.