Youth in slippers detained for attempting ‘forced entry’ into Puri Srimandir

Tension prevailed near the Jagannath Temple on Wednesday morning after an unidentified youth attempted to forcibly enter the shrine before the Singhadwara was opened for devotees.

According to sources, the bike-borne youth, with a stick in his hand, parked his vehicle in front of Radha Ballabha mutt and tried to rush inside the temple premises. 

On-duty police personnel and Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) immediately intervened and stopped him while he was trying to enter the temple through ‘Chori Kabat’, sources added.

When security forces tried to move him away, the youth reportedly argued with the officials. He was later detained by the police and taken to the Singhadwara police station for questioning. 

Eyewitnesses claimed that the youth was trying to enter the 12th-century shrine while wearing slippers, in violation of temple traditions.

Police have begun an investigation to ascertain the identity of the youth and the motive behind his attempt to trespass. Besides, the police are reportedly examining the mental health of the youth.

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Though attempts were made to contact City DSP and the JTP commandant, no comment could be obtained.