Bhubaneswar: A fresh controversy has erupted after a servitor of the Jagannath Temple filed a police complaint against social media influencer and journalist Shubhankar Mishra for making alleged misleading remarks about Srimandir in a recent YouTube video.
The complainant, Gourahari Pradhan, lodged the FIR at Singhadwar Police Station, seeking the immediate arrest of Mishra. “Shubhankar Mishra is spreading false messages regarding Srimandir. His comments may create unnecessary confusion among devotees of Lord Jagannath,” Pradhan said.
Puri SP Prateek Singh confirmed receipt of the complaint and assured a thorough probe.
“We have received the complaint and will investigate it. As per the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), appropriate action will be taken. We also have relevant sections under the IT Act and BNS to address cases where misleading information hurts public sentiments. Legal opinion will be sought as part of the investigation,” Singh told reporters.
The controversy stems from a recent video in which Mishra claimed that unmarried couples visiting the Jagannath Temple may see their relationships fall apart, suggesting that the temple carries a ‘curse’ linked to Radharani. He further alleged that Radharani was once denied entry into the shrine and, feeling insulted, cursed that unmarried couples entering the temple would not see their relationships succeed.
The video quickly went viral, triggering widespread criticism from devotees and servitors. Many termed Mishra’s claims “misleading,” “unverified,” and “disrespectful” to the traditions of the revered shrine.
