Vikash Sharma

Puri: The Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was shown black flags allegedly by Youth Congress activists during his visit to Puri on Saturday.

As per reports, around 10 youths raised slogans and protested Naveen Patnaik’s visit to the pilgrim town by barging into the middle of the road waving black flags just when the convoy of the CM was passing by. The incident reportedly occurred near Atharnala and forcing the police to intervene which led to a minor scuffle.

Patnaik today visited Puri to review the beautification and development works under Puri Srimandir Heritage Corridor Project.

“I have come to Jagannath temple in Puri to see how the work is going on outside the temple,” Patnaik said.

Youth Congress activist, Swadin Panda said, “The people of Odisha will not tolerate the fact that development is being carried out after demolishing religious structures near Sri Mandir.”

According to Panda, one Kanhaiya Lal had donated the Bagala Dharmashala land to provide accommodation facilities at cheaper rates to devotees coming to Puri.

However, the administration allegedly sold the land illegally to some hoteliers which is being opposed by the Youth Congress activists.

As per reports, black flags were shown twice to Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik including once near Mausi Maa temple during his visit to Puri today.

Krishan Kumar, Administrator Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) said, “Under the development project, land acquisition is underway and it is likely to be completed within next three months. CM Naveen Patanik today reviewed all projects and what will be the architecture of the proposed buildings.”

(Edited By Bikram Keshari Jena)

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