The Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Thursday sought more time to file an affidavit regarding the status of the Puri Srimandir’s Ratna Bhandar, the (treasure trove) of the sacred shrine.
The SJTA has informed the Orissa High Court that it will submit the affidavit by the next hearing. In its previous hearing, the High Court had asked the SJTA to inform through an affidavit regarding various issues, from when the Ratna Bhandar is closed, total assets inside it and its present status.
The High Court had asked the SJTA to submit the affidavit mentioning how long the Ratna Bhandar was not opened and why. A bench comprising Chief Justice S Muralidhar had earlier passed the order while hearing a petition seeking to take stock of the properties and valuables inside the Ratna Bhandar of Lord Jagannath temple in Puri.
The hearing on the issue of repair works of Srimandir’s Jagamohan and Konark temple was also conducted today. The Deputy Solicitor apprised the Court that soon the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) will set up an office in Puri.
Earlier, the amicus curiae had submitted his report in connection with the current status of Jagamohan and Nata Mandir before the High Court. In his report, he had mentioned that 'necessary repair works have not been carried out'.
(Reported by Gautam Panda)