In a significant development, the Odisha government has announced plans to open the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the historic Jagannath Temple in Puri.
· The Minister emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring a meticulous inspection of the treasury’s contents.
· He mentioned that special strategies are being developed for the next 100 days, one year, and five years to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Law, Works, and Excise departments.
· Furthermore, the Odisha government is also moving forward with the appointment of a permanent administrator for the Srimandir, the temple’s managing body.
· The decision to appoint a permanent administrator follows a directive from the Supreme Court, which urged the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to ensure continuous and stable management of the temple.
In a significant development, the Odisha government has announced plans to open the Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of the historic Jagannath Temple in Puri. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan revealed on Monday that the government is actively working on the modalities for opening the treasury, which has been shrouded in mystery and anticipation.
Harichandan informed the media that the process for accessing the Ratna Bhandar is already underway. The Minister emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring a meticulous inspection of the treasury’s contents. Preparations are in progress to make sure that the opening and inspection are conducted smoothly. The decision on the precise timing for the opening will be announced shortly, as the government is keen on resolving any confusion surrounding the Ratna Bhandar’s status.
In addition to the plans for the Ratna Bhandar, Minister Harichandan highlighted his broader vision for the departments under his purview. He mentioned that special strategies are being developed for the next 100 days, one year, and five years to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Law, Works, and Excise departments. Harichandan, who oversees these departments, is focused on delivering tangible improvements and serving the people of Odisha effectively.
As part of his immediate agenda, Harichandan is set to review the progress on the Bhubaneswar Court Complex with the Works Department officers. He announced that the new court complex is on track to be completed and inaugurated in the first week of August. This project is part of the government’s broader commitment to infrastructure development and judicial efficiency in the state.
Furthermore, the Odisha government is also moving forward with the appointment of a permanent administrator for the Srimandir, the temple’s managing body. Harichandan confirmed that this is a priority in the newly formed BJP government’s first 100-day agenda. Although the temple management has functioned without significant issues recently, the appointment of a full-time administrator is deemed essential for the efficient administration of the temple’s affairs.
The decision to appoint a permanent administrator follows a directive from the Supreme Court, which urged the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to ensure continuous and stable management of the temple. The court’s interim judgement on Srimandir reforms has prompted the government to expedite the process of filling this critical role.
The forthcoming opening of the Ratna Bhandar and the appointment of a full-time administrator signify the government’s proactive approach to managing one of Odisha’s most revered and historically significant temples. These measures aim to enhance the transparency, administration, and overall upkeep of the Puri Jagannath Temple, ensuring its legacy is preserved for future generations.
(With inputs from agencies)
