Bhubaneswar: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) found itself in a soup following a public outcry over it post on social media, celebrating the completion of the 95-day restoration work at Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri.
The images posted on its official ‘X’ handle on Monday, showcasing the restored Ratna Bhandar, Bhog Mandap entrance, Satpahacha steps, and Ghanti Dwara, clearly displayed the interior layout of the 12th-century shrine, where use of mobile phones and cameras is strictly prohibited to maintain its security and sanctity.
The ASI, which is the custodian of the temple, drew criticism from devotees and intellectuals for disregarding the security protocols and hurting religious sentiments, as the inner sanctum is traditionally kept private. It removed the photos later at around 11 pm on Monday
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) is yet to comment on the issue.
Meanwhile, BJD leader Amar Patnaik flagged the issue on his X handle, seeking an investigation into it. “If ASI does this, how can you enforce ban against photography inside the temple by pilgrims and devotees? They may have deleted these photographs now, but the damage has already been done!” he wrote.
What insensitivity by @ASIGoI towards Mahaprabhu #Jagannatha to have posted these pictures of the #Ratnabhandar on their official social media accounts? An absolute sacrilege!
Hitherto this, no one knew where the Ratnabhandar was! Is ASI trying publicise to the entire world its… pic.twitter.com/kGPoe9ouyo
— Dr. Amar Patnaik (@Amar4Odisha) July 29, 2025