Puri: A security personnel of the Shree Jagannath Temple was allegedly assaulted by a group of devotees from West Bengal today.
As per reports, Gupteswar Routray, a member of the Jagannath Temple Police (JTP), sustained injuries in the incident and was taken to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) for treatment.
The clash reportedly began when a group of around five devotees attempted to enter the 12th-century shrine via the Ghanti Dwar, a gate not designated for entry.
Routray, who was stationed at the gate, instructed them to use the proper entry route in accordance with temple guidelines. An argument ensued, during which the devotees allegedly assaulted Routray, causing injuries to his head and other areas.
Following the incident, Routray filed a formal complaint at the Singhadwar Police Station.
In response, the police have launched an investigation and questioned the devotees involved. The devotees from West Bengal also lodged a counter-complaint, alleging that they were mistreated by the JTP personnel.
Police officials plan to review CCTV footage from the temple area to clarify the sequence of events and address the claims from both sides.
Further investigation by the police to determine the facts surrounding the incident is underway.
