BJD Seeks ASI Apology for Posting Puri Jagannath Temple Interior Photos

The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha demanded an unconditional apology from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Tuesday for sharing photos of the Puri Jagannath Temple’s interiors on social media, calling it a breach of security and an affront to devotees’ sentiments. The ASI had posted high-resolution images on Monday, showcasing the restored Ratna Bhandar, Bhog Mandap entrance, Satpahacha steps, and Ghanti Dwara of the 12th-century shrine, but deleted them after widespread backlash.

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty, addressing a press conference, questioned how the ASI, the temple’s custodian, violated strict rules prohibiting cameras or electronic gadgets inside the premises. “This illegal act raises security concerns and hurts devotees’ feelings,” Mohanty said, demanding the suspension of the responsible officer and clarification from the BJP-led state government and Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).

Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan acknowledged the issue, stating, “The SJTA is fully free to take action.” The incident follows the ASI’s 95-day restoration of the Ratna Bhandar, completed after its July 2024 opening, with an audit set for August.

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Posts on X, including from @bjd_odisha and @Amar4Odisha, accused the ASI of sacrilege and criticized the BJP’s silence, with hashtags like #BJPAntiOdisha trending. Some users, like @AaratiParida, alleged political complicity. The controversy reignites debates over the temple’s sanctity, previously sparked by the BJD’s Heritage Corridor Project.

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