Western Gate Of Jagannath Temple In Odisha’s Puri To Open To Local Devotees From Tomorrow

Puri: Giving in to the vociferous demand, the district administration has announced to open one more gate of Jagannath temple in Puri for entry of local devotees from Monday.

Speaking to media persons here on Sunday, sub-collector of Puri Bhabataran Sahu said considering the devotees’ demand, it has been decided to allow the people of the town to enter the temple through western gate. They have to produce identity proof at the gate for going inside the temple, he added.

Earlier in the day, noted sand artist and member of Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC) Sudarsan Pattnaik reiterated his demand for opening at least one more gate of the 12th-century shrine for local residents. He even threatened to stage a sit-in before the ‘Paschimadwara’ of Srimandir from Monday if the demand is not fulfilled.

It may be noted that 3 of total 4 gates of the temple were closed during CVOID pandemic to enforce restrictions related to the disease. Though the disease has subsided, the restriction continues to remain in force till date.

The devotees are allowed to enter the temple only through Singhadwar (Lions Gate), which is causing heavy rush and long queues. There have also been reports of stampede-like situation on festive days due to rush of the devotees.