Bhubaneswar, 22 August (H.S.):The much-anticipated queue system for darshan at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri will be implemented from September 15, Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan announced on Friday.
The minister stated that the system will be introduced following the formation of the new Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, expected by September 3 or 4. The committee's first meeting will address key issues, including the relocation of the Hundi (donation box) from the Jagamohan area, paving the way for the new crowd management system.
“The temple administration is fully prepared to roll out the queue system,” said Harichandan. “This move is aimed at enhancing crowd control and ensuring that devotees can have darshan of the deities in a more organized and disciplined manner.”
The Srimandir Managing Committee, which plays a pivotal role in the administration of the 12th-century shrine, has been inactive since its previous term expired in August 2024. The delay in reconstituting the panel has drawn criticism from devotees and temple servitors, especially in light of ongoing concerns regarding the Ratna Bhandar inventory and the recent stampede during the annual Ratha yatra festival.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda