TheShree Jagannath Temple Administrationhas finalised a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to regulate protocol during visits by VIPs to theShree Jagannath Temple, with an emphasis on controlled darshan, discipline, and improved coordination within the temple premises.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, SJTA Chief AdministratorArabinda Padheesaid that the temple administration will have complete authority over the management of VIP protocols. He added that stricter arrangements for controlled darshan would be implemented to ensure that devotees are not inconvenienced during official visits.
The Chief Administrator also announced tighter restrictions on the use of mobile phones inside the temple premises. Under the new arrangement, only personnel engaged in essential temple-related duties will be permitted to carry mobile phones, in order to maintain sanctity and discipline.
Referring to the recent controversy over barricaded darshan arrangements, Padhee expressed regret over the incident and attributed it to a lack of coordination. He said a thorough inquiry has been ordered and warned that anyone found guilty, based on CCTV footage, would face strict action.
He further stated that all officials present at the review meeting had expressed concern over the incident and resolved to ensure that such situations do not recur. Emphasising the importance of effective command and coordination, he said the role of commanders within the temple administration remains crucial for the smooth conduct of daily rituals and darshan.
The SJTA has also decided to hold regular coordination meetings every month to review arrangements and address emerging issues. Padhee confirmed that the draft SOP for VIP visits has already been prepared and reiterated that the temple administration alone will oversee all protocol-related arrangements, reflecting its commitment to ensuring orderly, secure, and dignified darshan for all devotees.
