Jagannath Temple Servitor Suspended for Indiscipline and Assault

Bhubaneswar: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has suspended a servitor for alleged indiscipline and assault at the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri.

Biswanath Khuntia, a Mukha Pakhala servitor, has been suspended for three months for allegedly attacking fellow servitor Madan Mohan Khuntia on the temple premises on December 16 last year. The suspension was enforced under Section 21 (A) of the Shree Jagannath Temple Act, according to SJTA officials.

During the suspension period, Biswanath is prohibited from performing any rituals or services for the temple’s presiding deities.

The altercation reportedly stemmed from a minor dispute between the two servitors. Following the incident, the SJTA issued notices to both individuals, demanding written explanations within seven days.

“The SJTA will not tolerate any form of indiscipline on temple grounds. Strict action will be taken against those responsible,” said Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the temple.

This action reinforces the temple administration’s commitment to maintaining order and decorum within the sacred premises.