Puri: Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has issued show-cause notices to three servitors following allegations of ritual delays, misconduct toward on-duty officials, and breach of discipline on February 28.
According to reports, the primary allegations involve Shri Ramakrishna Khuntia, who was performing duties as a proxy for another Palia Khuntia servitor. It is alleged that despite being on duty, he caused significant and unnecessary delays in the execution of specific sacred rituals. Furthermore, he is accused of using offensive and inappropriate language toward the temple staff and administrative officers on duty.
In addition to Ramakrishna Khuntia, two other servitors, Shri Madhab Khuntia (alias Hati) and Shri Madhusudan Khuntia (alias Sandhi), have been named for their alleged roles in obstructing the smooth conduct of rituals and displaying disorderly behavior within the temple premises.
The Temple Administration has taken a serious view of these lapses and has directed the trio to submit their written explanations within seven days.
Notably, a separate notice has been served to Shri Ramakrishna Khuntia asking for a satisfactory explanation as to why his Sadhibandha, a formal recognition of a servitor, should not be revoked in light of these allegations.
SJTA Chief Administrator, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, emphasized that while the majority of servitors have shown exemplary coordination during recent festivals like Dola Purnima, the disruptive actions of a few individuals cannot be tolerated.
Dr.Padhee reiterated that strict action will be initiated under the Shree Jagannath Temple Act to ensure the sanctity and discipline of the shrine are maintained.
SJTA Chief Dr. Padhee also expressed his gratitude towards the larger community of servitors whose cooperation continues to facilitate the timely and orderly performance of the rituals of the Lord Jagannatha.