SJTA Suspends Jagannath Temple Servitor Over Alleged Misconduct

Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has suspended a servitor of the Shree Jagannath Temple over allegations of involvement in immoral activities, officials said on Thursday.

The servitor, identified as Shraddhananda Das Mahapatra, who serves as a Suddha Suara and Daitapati, was placed under suspension by the Chief Administrator after the administration was informed about a police case registered against him.

As per an official order, he has been barred from performing any temple duties and prohibited from entering the temple premises until further orders.

The SJTA stated that the action was taken as the alleged conduct had tarnished the dignity and reputation of both the servitor community and the temple.

Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee said that while most servitors strictly adhere to discipline and uphold temple traditions, any instance of indiscipline or misconduct will not be tolerated.

Officials added that the suspension will remain in effect pending further developments in the case.