Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to streamline the administration of Shri Jagannatha Temple’s vast landed properties and internal discipline, Law, Works, and Excise Minister Shri Prithviraj Harichandan chaired a high-level review meeting at the Law Department Conference Room in Lok Seva Bhavan today.
The session focused primarily on amending the existing land tenure policy to address the mismanagement and encroachment of thousands of acres of temple land situated both within and outside the state. Principal Secretary, Law, Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samal outlined the detailed discussion.
The meeting addressed the long-standing grievances of landless servants, religious leaders, and residents who have occupied temple lands for generations without formal rights. By amending the settlement policy, the state government aims to provide legal tenure to these long-term occupants, including both Sevayats and non-Sevayats.
This administrative overhaul is expected to not only resolve legacy land disputes but also ensure a steady and smooth flow of revenue for the temple administration. Furthermore, the committee discussed a strategic proposal to reclaim valuable properties from illegal encroachment and re-allocate them at market-competitive rates to maximize the temple’s endowment fund.
Beyond land management, the deliberations extended to comprehensive legal reforms within the ancient framework governing the temple’s daily operations. The Minister emphasized the need for modernizing old laws to enforce disciplined customs and prevent disorderly conduct within the shrine. To this end, various sub-committees have been formed to oversee the implementation of stricter regulations, including the prohibition of specific items and the establishment of a robust punitive system for violations.
The administration also signaled a focus on maintaining the sanctity and cultural integrity of the temple. Discussions were held regarding the enforcement of a traditional Indian dress code for devotees to ensure modesty within the premises. Additionally, the Law Department is contemplating strict legal provisions to curb the spread of misinformation regarding Shri Jagannath culture on social media platforms.
The meeting was attended by Special Secretary Shri Bhagaban Prasad Sahu, Additional Secretary Shri Shiba Prasad Mohapatra, Joint Secretary Shri Ansuman Mohanty, Additional Secretary, Revenue, Shri Amiya Kumar and Principal Secretary Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samal and other key representatives from the Law and Revenue departments, concluded with the release of the Law Department’s official diary by the Minister.