Bhubaneswar: Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has rubbished the statement of the Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the opening of the Srimandir Ratna Bhandar, saying that no decision has yet been taken on the opening of the treasure trove of the shrine.
“No decision has been taken yet on the opening of Ratna Bhandar on July 8. A government official has given a statement on the matter in an indiscipline manner creating confusion to cover up their loopholes. Appropriate action will be taken against the official concerned as per norms. The government is in the process to decide on the opening of the Ratna Bhandar,” said Harichandan.
Through a press release, the Law Department also clarified “No proposal from Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee regarding opening of Ratna Bhandar has been received by the Government today. If any such proposal is received by the Government in the future, necessary action will be taken.”
Earlier in the day, ASI Superintendent DB Garnayak informed that Ratna Bhandar will be opened on July 8 for inspection.
Inspection of the inner wall of the Ratna Bhandar will be done on July 8 and the Ratna Bhandar will be opened in the presence of the core committee and technical committee.
“As per the inspection carried out in 2018, cracks were detected and some stones and iron rods were missing. The condition was not good. Further, the laser scanning conducted in November 2023 also showed cracks in the outer wall and joints. Rain water may be seeping inside the Ratna Bhandar through the cracks,” said Garnayak.
