Puri: A man was detained by the police while allegedly trying to enter the Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri wearing slippers on Wednesday.
The incident sparked tension at the 12th century shrine when the man allegedly tried to forcibly enter the shrine before the Singhadwara was opened for devotees in the morning.
As per preliminary information, the man appeared on a bike with a stick in his hand and parked the two-wheeler outside Radha Ballabha mutt before trying to move into the temple premises.
After noticing the man’s action, police personnel present at the site and Jagannath Temple Police (JTP) immediately intervened and stopped him while he was trying to enter the temple through ‘Chori Kabat’, sources said.
The man reportedly argued with the police personnel when they tried to stop and move him away. He was later detained by the police and taken to the Singhadwara police station for questioning.
Locals said the youth was trying to enter the shrine while wearing slippers, in violation of temple traditions.
An investigation has been initiated by the police to ascertain the identity of the youth and the motive behind his attempt to trespass. Besides, the police are reportedly examining the mental health of the youth.
