Mobile Phone Use Inside Puri Jagannath Temple Goes Viral, Raises Security Concerns

Bhubaneswar: A video showing a person allegedly using a mobile phone at Anand Bazaar inside the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri has gone viral on social media, triggering serious concerns over security lapses at the revered shrine.

The incident has raised questions about how the individual managed to enter the temple premises with a mobile phone despite multiple layers of security checks and strict advisories prohibiting electronic devices. In the viral video, the person is seen speaking on the phone at Anand Bazaar for an extended period.

Officials noted that this is not an isolated incident. In recent months, several photos and videos reportedly taken inside the temple have surfaced online, indicating repeated violations of security norms.

In October last year, a mobile phone was recovered from within the temple premises, following which a temple gumasta (employee) was detained on suspicion of taking photographs. He was later interrogated by police at the Singhadwar police station.

In another incident, two youths were caught attempting to take photographs using a hidden camera concealed in a pair of glasses. They were immediately detained by police personnel deployed at the temple.

The repeated breaches have prompted the police and temple administration to take serious note of the situation. Authorities have indicated that security measures will be further tightened to prevent the entry of prohibited electronic devices and to ensure the sanctity and safety of the temple premises.