Bhubaneswar: A new chapter in the governance of the Ratna Bhandar commenced as Law Minister Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan convened a decisive meeting to orchestrate the upcoming inventory of the sacred jewelry of Shree Jagannatha Temple.
The meeting saw the participation of key dignitaries and legal experts, reflecting the gravity of the task. Notable attendees included Chairman of the High-Level Committee, Justice Biswanath Rath, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA) Dr. Arabinda Padhee, and Law Principal Secretary Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samal.
This high-level consultation sought to harmonize rigorous administrative oversight with the centuries-old spiritual traditions of the Sahasra-year-old shrine, ensuring the divine treasury is documented with absolute integrity.
The discussions centered on three primary pillars: a meticulous counting process, robust security arrangements, and comprehensive administrative preparations. Officials deliberated on the technicalities of the census to ensure that every ornament is accounted for with the highest level of accuracy while maintaining the sanctity of the Lord’s treasury.
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) specifically tailored for this jewelry census has already been drafted. This protocol outlines the step-by-step methodology for handling the precious items, ensuring that traditional rituals and safety standards are simultaneously upheld. The meeting served as a final review of these guidelines before they are submitted to the Chief Minister for formal approval. A definitive date for the commencement of the counting process will be announced following the Chief Minister’s review.
The meeting saw senior officials present were Additional Law Secretary Shri Shiba Prasad Mohapatra, Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, Niti Administrator Shri Jitendra Kumar Sahu, and Shri Debabrata Sahu.
The administration has emphasized that the entire exercise is being planned with a deep respect for the religious sentiments of millions of devotees, ensuring that the process is as secure as it is sacred.