Bhubaneswar: The Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Dr Arabinda Padhee has issued a stern warning that any attempts to illegally transfer or sell land belonging to Lord Jagannath will be dealt with swiftly and severely.
Dr. Padhee emphasized that any unauthorized transfer of Lord Jagannath’s land is illegal and punishable under the law. He also warned that the administration will not tolerate any fraud or illegal activity related to the temple’s properties.
This move comes after reports of unauthorized individuals trying to encroach and sell land owned by Lord Jagannath near Gundicha temple surfaced prompting the SJTA to complain with the Kumbharapada police.
According to the complaint filed by SJTA, several plots of land, including 827, 824, 821, 823, 825, and 821/1816 located at Talabania, have been targeted by unscrupulous elements attempting to illegally sell them.
After the complaint came to the notice of the Chief Administrator of SJTA, he ordered a preliminary investigation into the matter by the Tehsildar. Additionally, Padhee also discussed the incident with the Puri Superintendent of Police.
Concerned over it, the temple administration has reiterated that it will not tolerate any illegal activities related to Lord Jagannath’s properties and will take swift action against those involved.
The temple administration has also urged the public to be cautious and verify the authenticity of land records before making any purchases. In case of any suspicion, people can contact the SJTA for verification.
To protect Lord Jagannath’s properties, the temple administration has initiated the process of computerizing all land records. Soon, the entire verification and complaint process will be available online, making it easier for people to report any suspicious activities.
Padhee also cited a previous instance where a land-grabbing attempt in the Matitota area was foiled by the Baselisahi police, who arrested the accused individuals involved.
