The Government of Odisha has revealed that there have been 10 incidents of illegal drone flights over the sacred Shri Jagannath Temple since June 2024. The information was shared in the State Assembly by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan in a written reply.
Out of the 10 drone violation cases, police have submitted final reports in two cases, while investigations are still ongoing in the remaining eight. These incidents have raised serious concerns over the security of the 12th-century temple, one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites.
The government also disclosed that 700 individuals were caught carrying mobile phones inside the temple premises in violation of rules. Authorities collected fines totalling Rs 6,93,000 from the offenders. In this connection, nine cases were registered at Singhadwar Police Station, with most cases already disposed of.
Additionally, eight cases were filed for illegally capturing photos and videos inside the temple and sharing them on social media. While five cases have been investigated, probes are ongoing in three others.
The revelations highlight ongoing challenges in enforcing security regulations and protecting the sanctity of the temple premises.
