Puri: Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has reportedly issued notices to two persons following seizure of unauthorised ghee inside the 12th century shrine.
As per information, the seized ghee had been sourced from outside and taken into the temple complex in violation of the rule mandating supply of only OMFED ghee in the shrine. The ghee was reportedly intercepted while it was being taken by a Suar Sevak from a devotee inside the temple premises.
Following the incident, the SJTA issued notices to two persons asking them to submit written explanations within seven days, officials said.
As per sources, a devotee from Bira Harekrushnapur in Puri district was carrying the ghee into the temple. The ghee was allegedly handed over to a Suar servitor, after which it was seized by temple officials during an internal check.
It may be noted that the entry of any ghee other than that supplied by OMFED is strictly prohibited in the temple. As per the direction of the Chief Administrator of SJTA, notices were served to both individuals involved, asking them to submit satisfactory explanations regarding the incident within the stipulated time.
The temple administration had earlier enforced a strict policy mandating the exclusive use of OMFED-supplied ghee for the preparation of Mahaprasad and for lighting diyas inside the temple. The decision was taken following concerns over the use of ghee from multiple sources in the past.
Officials said a thorough investigation has been launched to ascertain as to how the ghee entered the temple premises. The probe will also examine whether the ghee was self-prepared or sourced externally.
