Complaint filed over unapproved access to Rath Yatra chariots

Bhubaneswar, July 16: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has officially filed a complaint with the Singhadwar Police Station in Puri regarding unauthorized individuals being present on the chariots during the Rath Yatra of the Holy Trinity.

Ajaya Kumar Jena, OSD (Development) of SJTA, lodged the complaint, emphasizing the need for strict action against these unauthorized persons and non-servitors who accessed the chariots of Lord Jagannath and His sibling deities.

The complaint highlights instances where unidentified individuals were observed on the chariots and near the wheels during this year's Rath Yatra, which violates the established Byabasthabali guidelines designed for the smooth conduct of the event. Alongside the complaint, SJTA submitted evidence including two photographs, two video clips stored on a pen drive, and a copy of the Byabasthabali 2024, detailing specific paragraphs outlining regulations for the Rath Yatra.

In the letter addressed to the Singhadwar police, SJTA requests identification of the individuals involved and urges appropriate disciplinary measures as per the rules. They also seek verification of the identities of those seen atop the chariots, with the intention to communicate necessary actions to their respective authorities.