Puri Srimandir: 3 servitors suspended for collecting money from devotees

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Friday suspended three servitors from temple duties over allegations of collecting money from devotees and violation of temple discipline. The order of suspension was issued by the Chief Administrator of the temple.

According to reports, ‘Suara Badu’ servitor Narayan Panda and Khuntia servitor Rajaram Khuntia have been suspended for allegedly collecting money from devotees in an unauthorised manner inside the Natamandap.

The duo reportedly accepted money from pilgrims near the Bahar Katha area last month, violating temple rules, and later engaged in a heated dispute among themselves over the collected amount.

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In another instance, Bena Mahasuara, another temple servitor, has been suspended for two months for allegedly promoting the use of Dalda (hydrogenated oil) within the temple premises — a practice strictly prohibited in rituals associated with the Lords.

The temple administration has issued a strict warning that during the suspension period, the concerned servitors must refrain from creating or instigating any form of disorder within the temple. Any attempt to violate the suspension order will result in extension of the suspension period and more stringent disciplinary action.

The SJTA has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining discipline, purity, and decorum in all temple-related activities, ensuring that such incidents do not recur in the sacred shrine.