Puri: A day after OTV telecast a report that charcoal from outside is allegedly being used for cooking ‘Mahaprasad’ at Puri Jagannath Temple, the authorities on Friday swung into action and alerted security guards to ensure that no such items are allowed inside the shrine.
Puri Jaganath Temple Niti (Ritual) Administrator, Jitendra Kumar today informed that supervisors and commanders at various entry points have been asked to remain extra vigilant.
On reports about sub-standard food items and vegetables being used in preparations of Mahaparasad, Kumar assured that the matter will be duly investigated.
“After media reports, security personnel have been alerted and asked to ensure that no such articles are allowed inside the temple. Discussions were held on how due procedure is followed and quality is maintained,” said Kumar.
Ramchandra Dasmohapatra, member of temple managing committee said, “It is an unfortunate incident. Whatever items are being used for the preparation of mahaprasad at Puri temple should be of high quality. Lord Jagannath will not forgive the servitors who are using sub-standard food items.”
Krushnachandra Pratihari, secretary of Suara-Mahasuara Nijog said, “At present, basmati rice is being used for the preparation of mahaprasad. The allegations of damaged and rotten vegetables being used are absolutely baseless. As quintals of vegetables are being used, some might get damaged during transportation and such items are not used at all.”