Puri Jagannath Temple admin prepares SOP for protocol during visits by VIPs

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has announced stricter arrangements for controlled Darshan by devotees and VIP protocols at the 12th-century shrine in Puri, SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee informed in a presser held on Monday.

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A Special Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been prepared for VIP guests visiting the temple under official protocol. The temple administration will have exclusive responsibility for protocol management.

Besides, stricter restrictions will be imposed on the use of mobile phones inside the temple premises. Only personnel involved in essential temple-related work will be allowed to carry mobile phones.

The Chief Administrator also regretted the controversy that arose yesterday over the barricaded Darshan arrangement. He attributed the incident to a lack of coordination and has ordered a thorough investigation.

SJTA chief Padhee further clarified that anyone found guilty, based on CCTV footage, will face strict action. The move reflects the temple administration’s commitment to ensuring smooth, organised, and secure Darshan for the devotees while maintaining discipline and protocol for VIPs.

“Everyone (present in the review meeting) regretted the specific incident that occurred yesterday. It was decided that we all would be careful so that such incidents would not recur in future. The role of a commander in the temple administration is quite significant for the smooth performance of daily rituals. Importance was given to keep the position of Commander intact,” the Chief Administrator said while speaking to mediapersons.

“A coordination meeting will be held every month, on a regular basis. Moreover, a draft SOP has already been prepared for the protocol on visits by VIPs. The temple administration will entirely be in charge of the protocol visits,” the Chief Administrator expressed.