Bhubaneswar, 13 August (H.S.): Security concerns have intensified in the holy town of Puri following the discovery of threatening graffiti near the iconic Jagannath Temple (Srimandir), raising alarm among residents and prompting urgent action from law enforcement agencies.

The disturbing messages were found on the walls of the Budhi Maa Thakurani temple, located near the Balisahi entrance of the Heritage Corridor (Parikrama Prakalpa) on Wednesday. The graffiti, written in multiple spots, included chilling warnings such as “Terrorists will destroy the temple” and referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi by name. Several phone numbers and instructions to “call” were also inscribed, further escalating fears of a potential security breach.

In addition to the threatening messages, miscreants reportedly damaged decorative lighting fixtures in the vicinity, compounding public anxiety. The area, part of the southern stretch of the Parikrama Marg, is under round-the-clock surveillance with numerous CCTV cameras and security personnel deployed. Yet, locals are questioning how such a brazen act could occur in a high-security zone without being detected.

Police have launched an investigation and are currently analyzing footage from operational surveillance cameras to identify the perpetrators. Officials have also begun tracing the phone numbers written in the graffiti to uncover any possible leads.

This incident has reignited criticism of the temple's existing security infrastructure. Despite recommendations from the Union Home Ministry and the National Security Guard (NSG) to bolster protection around the Srimandir, several CCTV units installed along the Parikrama Marg reportedly remain non-functional. Residents allege that the security measures, which cost crores of rupees, have been more ornamental than effective.

“This is not the first lapse. In the past, individuals have breached temple security by smuggling in spy cameras or scaling the walls to gain unauthorized access,” a local resident said, demanding stringent action.

Authorities have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to strengthen surveillance and prevent any future threats. However, the incident has highlighted glaring vulnerabilities in the current system, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive review and overhaul of temple security protocols.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda