Temple Tensions: Puri Servitor Under Scrutiny for Digha Involvement

The Shri Jagannath Temple Administration has issued a show cause notice to senior servitor Ramakrushna Dasmohapatra for his participation in the inauguration of a controversial new Jagannath temple in Digha. His involvement has sparked confusion and concerns over religious traditions among devotees, with potential consequences looming.

The Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has issued a second show cause notice to Ramakrushna Dasmohapatra, a senior servitor, following his participation in a controversial temple inauguration in Digha, West Bengal. The event's title, 'Jagannath Dham-Digha,' and the use of sacred elements have raised concerns among Puri temple officials.

Despite his prominent role during the ceremony, the presence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and widespread media coverage, Dasmohapatra's actions have been criticized for potentially misleading devotees about the temple's traditional values. SJTA officials are assessing whether disciplinary action is warranted under the Sri Jagannath Temple Act, 1955.

Dasmohapatra has been given two days to explain his actions to Arabinda Padhee, the SJTA chief administrator. This controversy follows Dasmohapatra's earlier claims involving sacred wood, which Odisha's Law Minister refuted, stating the Digha idols were crafted using simple neem wood instead.

(With inputs from agencies.)