Retired Army personnel deployed at Puri Srimandir as part of Anand Bazaar reform measures

To enhance security in Srimandir, the Puri Jagannath Temple administration has deployed at least 20 retired Army personnel in Anand Bazaar, where the Mahaprasad is sold to devotees. While 10 of the special ex-army personnel have been engaged in the morning, 10 more will be deployed at 2:00 pm today to streamline operations in Anand Bazaar.

The primary duty of the security members will be to ensure the sale of freshly prepared Mahaprasad exclusively only by authorized servitors. They will also take steps to avoid the sale of stale Mahaprasad, check the quality of food, and prevent food prepared outside the temple.

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has also directed them to be cordial and helpful towards the devotees. The decision was taken by the temple managing committee meeting. Their deployment will ensure peace in the temple premises while preserving the traditions and sanctity of the temple.

“All of them are retired officers and have good experience in crowd management. Their main job is to prevent the sale of stale mahaprasad, food prepared outside the temple, safety of devotees in Anand Bazaar and prevent entry of servitors not authorized by the temple management,” informed a member of the committee.

“They are advised to behave well with the devotees and servitors. Hopefully, they will maintain peace and tranquillity in the temple premises and preserve the sanctity of our temple,” he added.

“10 of us joined the first shift at around 6 AM in the morning. We will be here till 2 PM until the next batch arrives. Our primary aim is to maintain peace and sanctity inside the temple premises and prevent the sale of stale Mahaprasad,” said an Army personnel.