Eviction Drive Launched Near Odisha's Lingaraj Temple To Clear Encroachments

Bhubaneswar: After Puri, Odisha Government on Monday launched a massive eviction drive to clear encroachments around Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. The eviction drive assumes significance for the overall protection and conservation of the 12th-century shrine.

As per reports, illegal structures in the entire stretch from Singhadwara of the temple to Bhajan Mandap and Sub-station will be cleared in the first phase.

At least three platoons of police force have been deployed to maintain law and order during the eviction.

Though shopkeepers and traders vacated their kiosks, they alleged that no step was taken by the government to provide compensation or rehabilitation. The traders of the market complex also opposed the ongoing eviction drive.

"We asked the authorities to give us some time to shift our cabin, but they did not listen and demolished the shop," said a shopkeeper.

Another trader said, "I was running a snacks stall since the last 40 years here. They (administrative officials) suddenly came and asked to vacate. I don't how I will survive now as my source of livelihood is gone."

On the other hand, Chief Executive Officer of Lingaraj Temple Trust Board, Pradip Kumar Sahu sought people's co-operation in the eviction drive. "I request the people to co-operate in the eviction process as this will be their service to Lord Lingaraj," said Sahu.