Three-member committee launches investigation into Lord Balabhadra idol mishap

Bhubaneswar, Aug 13: A three-member committee on Tuesday began its investigation into the incident involving the mishandling of Lord Balabhadra’s idol as it was being removed from his chariot and transported to the ‘Adapa Mandap’ at the Gundicha temple.

The committee, which includes an Additional District Magistrate (ADM), an Administrator (Development), and a DSP-ranked officer, has commenced questioning various individuals related to the incident. Among those interviewed are Anath Haladhar Das Mahapatra, the son of the Badagrahi of Lord Balabhadra, and Khuntia servitors, Pratihari servitors, officials from the Sri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), and senior Daitapati servitors. The Chief Administrator of Srimandir also participated in the investigation virtually.

The incident, which took place on July 9, involved the holy idol of Lord Balabhadra falling onto the ramp (charamala) of his chariot while being lowered for transfer to the Gundicha temple. This mishap resulted in injuries to seven servitors involved in the ritual.

The episode has provoked significant public outcry and criticism from opposition parties, leading the government to establish the investigation committee. The panel has been assigned to determine the cause of the mishap and hold those responsible accountable.