SJTA Files Complaint Over Mobile Phone Use on Rath Yatra Chariots

Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has lodged a formal complaint with the Singhadwar Police Station after videos and images showing the use of mobile phones on the chariots of the Holy Trinity during the Rath Yatra surfaced on social media.

This year, the SJTA had strictly prohibited the use or carrying of mobile phones on the chariots to maintain the sanctity of the rituals and ensure the safety of devotees and servitors.

In a letter to the Inspector-in-Charge of Singhadwar Police Station, the Officer on Special Duty (Security) requested that legal action be taken against individuals who violated the mobile phone ban. The letter emphasized that such actions not only disturb the spiritual atmosphere but also pose potential risks to life and property during the grand procession.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Niladri Bije ritual, which marks the concluding ceremony of the Rath Yatra. As per tradition, Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, will return to the Shree Jagannath Temple later today. The sacred ritual takes place on Trayodashi tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Asadha.