Puri: A fresh racket to dupe devotees using Lord Jagannath’s name has come to light with police unearthing a fake website created by fraudsters to collect money with false promise of providing different services at the 12th century shrine in Odisha’s Puri.
Police said the fake website — Pujapariseva.com — has been found offering online puja rituals of the Lords and collecting money in a fraudulent manner.
The site reportedly advertised four varieties of rituals – Abhishek Puja, Tulsi Daan Puja, General Darshan, and a special puja for Lord Jagannath and His Siblings. Different rates for each type of puja have also been mentioned. The site further offered to arrange offerings like ‘sukhuli bhog’ on behalf of devotees.
Devotees have been asked to book different services through the site, which also promised to arrange direct puja and darshan of Lord Jagannath.
Sharing detailed information about the dubious site, Puri Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh said the cyber team has been alerted and necessary steps will be taken to block and investigate the website.
Singh also appealed to devotees not to fall prey to such fraudulent claims and to verify any service through official temple administration channels only.
Police further warned that strict action would be initiated against those attempting to exploit religious sentiments for financial gain.
