New SJTA administrator warns against mobile phones on chariots

Bhubaneswar, July 12: Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the newly appointed chief administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), issued a stern warning today against servitors using mobile phones atop chariots during Rath Yatra.

Upon assuming office, Padhee emphasized adherence to SJTA guidelines, prohibiting unauthorized climbing of chariots. He underscored that any servitors found using mobile phones or taking photographs on the chariots would face disciplinary action.

"We have observed instances of servitors using mobile phones and unauthorized individuals gaining access to chariots. Strict measures will be taken against such misconduct. Only those directly involved in service will be allowed atop the chariots," Padhee stated.

He appealed for cooperation from all servitors to uphold cultural sanctity, expressing regret for the recent incident during Lord Balabhadra's Adapa Pahandi. A committee has been formed to investigate the matter, ensuring preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

Padhee assured smooth conduct of upcoming rituals like Bahuda Yatra, Adhara Pana, and Niladri Bije, stressing on disciplined performance of these rituals as SJTA's foremost priority.