SC turns down CBI probe demand into entry of cops with shoes in Srimandir

Puri: The Supreme Court of India today rejected Sri Jagannath Sena's plea seeking a CBI probe into policemen entering Puri Srimandir wearing shoes and holding weapons.

It is pertinent to mention here that large-scale violence was reported during the observance of Puri bandh called by the socio-cultural outfit on October 3 over the introduction of queue system at Srimandir.

Protesters had allegedly vandalized property at the residence of local MLA and Revenue Minister Maheswar Mohanty, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) office and the tourist information centre.

Following incidents of vandalism by agitators, policemen had allegedly entered the 12th century shrine wearing shoes and holding weapons. Protesting such act of the cops, the members of the socio-cultural outfit had moved the apex court demanding a CBI probe.

In another development, the Puri district judge recently granted bail to 25 persons who were arrested for the violence during Puri bandh.