Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has lodged a complaint with the Puri Cyber Police against the alleged illegal online sale of Mahaprasad, prompting the launch of an investigation into the matter.
The complaint was filed on Tuesday by the Administrator of Temple Security after reports surfaced that Jagannath Mahaprasad was being advertised and sold through social media platforms. Following the complaint, the Cyber Police initiated an inquiry and began examining the online activities linked to the sale.
Puri District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida said the online sale of Mahaprasad is completely illegal and warned that certain individuals were deceiving devotees through such platforms.
“The police are already aware of the issue and action has been taken in the past. Strict action will continue against those involved in the illegal sale of Mahaprasad online,” he said.
The Collector also appealed to devotees not to purchase Mahaprasad through online channels and urged them to report such fraudulent activities to the police to facilitate strict legal action against the offenders.
The controversy emerged after a social media organisation, Braj Mela, allegedly posted advertisements promoting the sale of Jagannath Mahaprasad, including dry Mahaprasad and Khaja Prasada. The promotional content was reportedly circulated through an Instagram account named “Hare Krishna Television,” which also provided a contact number for placing orders.
The advertisements triggered strong reactions from devotees and servitors, who termed the practice disrespectful to the sanctity of Mahaprabhu’s Prasada. Following the public outcry, the SJTA moved the Cyber Police seeking action against those responsible.
Police officials said further investigation is underway to identify all persons involved in the alleged online sale and promotion of Mahaprasad.
