16-Point Reform Plan for Lingaraj Temple Submitted to Odisha Govt

Bhubaneswar: A comprehensive 16-point reform proposal aimed at improving administration and services at the historic Lingaraj Temple was submitted to Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Monday.

The recommendations form part of the second interim report prepared by the Satwa Lipi (Record of Rights) Committee, a two-member panel tasked with suggesting measures to streamline the temple’s functioning. The committee is headed by Justice Durga Prasanna Choudhury and includes noted Sanskrit scholar Prafulla Kumar Mishra.

The report outlines key reforms focusing on discipline in ritual practices, renovation of the temple’s sanctum and kitchen, and upgrading lighting infrastructure. It also recommends specialised training programmes for sevayats to improve service delivery and preserve traditional practices.

In addition, the panel has suggested better management of the hundi (donation system) and resolution of long-pending land-related issues associated with the temple.

Receiving the report, Harichandan said the state government would examine the recommendations thoroughly before taking a decision. He noted that issues related to rituals and temple management would be reviewed carefully to ensure improved arrangements for both devotees and sevayats.