Bhubaneswar, April 27: A detailed 16-point reform plan for the iconic Lingaraj Temple was submitted to Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Monday, proposing wide-ranging measures to streamline rituals, improve devotee services, and strengthen temple management.
The proposals are part of the second interim report of the Satwa Lipi (Record of Rights) Committee, constituted to recommend reforms for better administration of the shrine. The two-member panel, led by Justice Dr. Durga Prasanna Choudhury and comprising Sanskrit scholar Prafulla Kumar Mishra, examined multiple aspects of temple functioning before finalising its recommendations.
Key suggestions include ensuring strict discipline in the performance of daily rituals, renovation of the temple’s sanctum and kitchen, and modernization of the lighting system within the premises. The panel has also emphasized the need for structured training programmes for sevayats to enhance efficiency and service quality.
In addition, the committee has called for improved management and transparency in handling the hundi (donation box) and urged authorities to resolve long-pending land-related disputes associated with the temple.
Receiving the report, the minister said the state government would carefully review all recommendations before taking a final decision. He stressed that any reforms, especially those related to rituals, would be implemented only after ensuring the interests of both sevayats and devotees are safeguarded. Senior law department officials were present during the submission.
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