Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has ordered immediate legal and disciplinary action following a reported incident of misconduct involving a female devotee at the Nisha Nrusingha Temple, located within the Shree Jagannath Temple premises in Puri.
According to an official statement issued by SJTA Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the incident allegedly occurred on the evening of December 24 and involved a teenager who had been appointed by a servitor to carry out duties at the temple. Describing the act as reprehensible and condemnable, the administration made it clear that such behaviour would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
In response to the incident, the temple supervisor has been directed to immediately lodge a First Information Report at the local police station. The administration has also decided to initiate disciplinary action against the concerned servitor for appointing another individual instead of personally performing the assigned seva-puja, in violation of the prescribed servitor appointment process. Punitive measures will be taken in accordance with the law.
As a precautionary step, the SJTA has announced that entry to the Nisha Nrusingha Temple will remain closed to all devotees and pilgrims, except for authorised servitors engaged in seva-puja, until further instructions are issued. The move, the administration said, is aimed at safeguarding the dignity and sanctity of the shrine.
Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, Dr. Padhee stated that no individual who tarnishes the dignity and sanctity of the Srimandir would be forgiven. He also expressed hope that Mahaprabhu would grant good sense to those involved.
The Nisha Nrusingha Temple, is a parshwa deva temple of the Shree Jagannath Temple complex. The SJTA reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all devotees visiting the sacred site.
