Fake online passes for Bhubaneswar Lingaraj Temple surface ahead of Maha Shivratri

In a shocking development ahead of Maha Shivratri, fraudulent passes claiming to offer special entry into the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar are reportedly being circulated online. 

As per sources, miscreants are allegedly selling these passes for Rs 1,800, promising devotees’ hassle-free darshan of Lord Lingaraj without standing in queues or facing heavy crowds.

The matter came to light after a woman identified as Tulsi Rajeswari shared information about the passes on her social media account. The post drew significant attention, raising concerns among devotees and temple authorities.

Following the revelations, servitors of the temple have lodged a complaint with the Commissionerate Police, seeking immediate action against those involved in the alleged scam.

Also Read: Maha Shivratri: Odisha govt holds high-level review meeting for Jagara Jatra at Lingaraj Temple

“A lady is selling these passes via online for Rs 1799. We have lodged a complaint about the matter in the police station. Servitors are working very hard to provide service to the Lord and the public will not be able to know about it.  The lady is selling these passes by mentioning no queue and VIP darshan. When we tried to communicate with the phone number, she only interacted with few words and never received our calls again. The lady is identified as Tulsi Rajeswari. We don't want people to be cheated by purchasing the fraudulent passes. We have lodged a complaint about the matter with the Commissionerate Police and he has promised us to take stern action,” said a servitor of Lord Lingaraj.

“If we find any duplicate passes, stern actions will be taken. Passes will only be provided for the transportation of goods meant for worship and for those in duties. We will try our best to ensure smooth and peaceful darshan of the devotees,” said Police Commissioner S Devadutta Singh.