Spy camera used to film Puri Jagannath Temple interiors; accused detained

In a startling incident, police on Saturday detained a youth for reportedly filming the interiors of the PuriJagannath Temple using a spy camera. The accused, identified as Bhaskar Samant, was detained by Singhadwar police for reportedly recording video footage of the Jagannath Temple interiors using a hidden spy camera.

Notably, filming or even carrying a mobile phone is strictly prohibited inside the premises of the holy temple.

Video of Jagannath Temple interiors found:

Sources also added that police seized the spy camera from him and found video footage of the temple's interior in the memory storage. Till the last reports, he was placed under further interrogation with a detailed investigation ongoing. Authorities, however, have not commented on the matter yet.

The detention has alarm bells ringing regarding security measures in the temple with recent similar incidents sparking concern.

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Similar recent incidents spark concern:

In early March, videos allegedly taken inside the sacred premises of Puri Srimandir went viral on social media, leading to widespread outrage and serious concerns regarding security breaches.

According to police reports, the videos were shared by a young woman and showcased various areas, including the west gate near the Nrusingha Temple. The clips also highlighted prominent landmarks such as the Puri Railway Station and the nearby beach.

A significant portion of the footage featured views from the Nrusingha Temple, focusing on the grand structure visible near the west gate.

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Administration in action:

The clips from early March had then raised questions about how the footage was captured despite strict prohibitions on photography and videography within the shrine. As such, the current incident has once again sparked worries and resentment among devotees, with authorities taking steps like intensifying crackdowns among other measures.