Bhubaneswar: In a surprising move, the West Bengal administration has installed a permanent signboard reading ‘Jagannath Dham’ in large letters at the newly constructed Jagannath Temple in Digha amid controversy.
As per reports, the development comes after BJP IT Cell Chief Amit Malviya claimed that the signboard was removed following protests.
“After strong protests from devotees of Prabhu Jagannath, the West Bengal government was forced to quietly remove the misleading ‘Dham’ signage in Digha. This is a significant victory for Hindu unity and a setback to Mamata Banerjee’s divisive agenda. When Hindus stand united, no political manipulation can succeed. Jai Jagannath!”, tweeted Malviya on Monday.
However, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has debunked Malviya’s claim, revealing that she had directed the administration to install the permanent signboard.
Overnight, the West Bengal government installed a permanent ‘Jagannath Dham’ signboard in large letters on the Digha Jagannath Temple premises, following the Chief Minister’s directive. Additionally, the nearby seaside area has reportedly been named ‘Mahodadhi’, said sources.
The temple, built in the likeness of Puri’s Srimandir, was consecrated on Akshaya Tritiya. However, the West Bengal government’s decision to label the temple ‘Jagannath Dham’ and the use of leftover sacred wood from Puri’s Jagannath Temple for the Digha deities have sparked strong opposition in Odisha. Critics argue that this move undermines the sanctity and uniqueness of Puri’s Jagannath Temple.
