Bhubaneswar: In a move towards greater inclusivity, the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is set to implement special arrangements for the physically challenged, allowing them to partake in the darshan of the deities.
Ranjan Das, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), shared this announcement after the Niti Sub-Committee meeting.
As part of the heritage corridor project, a dedicated ramp will be constructed at the north gate of the temple, providing physically challenged devotees with seamless access. This provision is expected to be operational after the inauguration of the project on January 17, 2024. Das highlighted that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) tailored for the Divyangs, respecting the temple’s traditions, will be established. Further discussions are anticipated regarding their potential access to the main temple in the future, he added.
To facilitate the darshan experience for physically challenged devotees, SJTA, in collaboration with Chhatish Nijog and the temple’s management committee, will work closely. Additionally, a separate resting accommodation will be incorporated near the north gate under the same project, enhancing the overall experience for all devotees.
Jitendra Kumar Biswal, first Quadriplegic actor from Odisha has been raising the issue of providing ramp facility in the Puri temple since long to help wheel chair bound differently abled devotees to get access to the temple.