Servitors, security clash over queue arrangement at Puri Srimandir; darshan through Sata Pahacha halted

A controversial situation erupted at the Puri Shree Jagannath Temple on Saturday over the implementation of a new protocol arrangement, triggering tension between servitors and security personnel. 

The dispute centred around a newly introduced queue system near the Sata Pahacha area of the temple.

According to sources, the Srimandir’s Special Security Force reportedly introduced a single-line queue arrangement below the Sata Pahacha without informing the temple servitors or taking their consent. This unilateral decision led to strong objections from the servitor community, who claimed the move violated established temple traditions and protocols.

The situation escalated as servitors protested the queue arrangement, leading to a brief scuffle and heated exchanges between servitors and security staff. Eyewitnesses said a pushing and jostling situation developed, causing temporary chaos in the area and inconvenience to devotees.

In protest, the servitors decided to stop darshan through the Sata Pahacha route, bringing movement in that section to a halt. They alleged that security personnel cannot alter long-standing darshan arrangements without proper consultation with the temple administration and servitors.

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Temple authorities later intervened to control the situation and hold discussions with both sides to restore normalcy. Devotees were advised to cooperate with alternative arrangements while efforts were made to resolve the issue.