Opposition seeks halt of Srimandir Parikrama project after Shankaracharya opprobrium

Soon after Puri Shankaracharya rapped up Odisha government over destroying heritage in Puri in the name of development under the Srimandir Parikrama initiative, the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress called for immediate halt to the corridor project works. 

BJP spokesperson Jatin Mohanty said “We are with the project. But it should not violate any law. The government should clarify its nature of work as we are unclear about the project. The government further has to clear its future work strategy related to the project and what has been done so far."

The BJP leader further urged the Odisha government to make the blueprint of the project public first. Government should give opportunity to archaeologists, engineers, conservationists and technical experts to give their views on the project.” 

Mohanty also stated that as the project has not got nod from Archaeological Survey of India and the National Monuments Authority, the government should immediately stop the project for now and resume work only after obtaining due permission. 

The saffron party also demanded a complete technical evaluation of the temple. 

On the other hand, Congress leader Arya Kumar Gyanendra said, “Everyone protested the construction work being carried out as part of the Parikrama project in the meeting held on Tuesday except the ruling Biju Janata Dal. The government has violated 10 laws. We urge all to agree with the decisions of the Puri Shankaracharya. We are not against developmental project but it should not violate any guidelines.” 
On the other hand, Minister Ashok Panda said “We have received many comments. The government will take a final call on it.”