Bhubaneswar: In a significant development, Odisha Law Minister Jagannath Saraka informed the House today that the Ratna Bhandar (treasure house) of the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri is set to open for repair work during this year’s Ratha Jatra.
Responding to a query raised by Congress MLA Dasarathi Gamango during the 16th Assembly’s last session, Minister Jagannath Saraka dispelled claims of delay by the State Government in opening the Ratna Bhandar, citing the need for careful consideration to ensure the sanctity of the temple.
Saraka clarified, “As both inner and outer Ratna Bhandar is located adjacent to Srimandir Jagmohan, if the ASI survey carries out repair work of the inner portion of Ratna Bhandar by entering into the structure, darshan of deities will be largely disrupted.”
The matter was extensively discussed during the Srimandir Managing Committee meeting held on August 4, 2023. The committee members recommended conducting a laser scan to inspect the inner condition of the Ratna Bhandar while avoiding any direct interference.
Minister Saraka revealed that after the laser scanning procedure, slated to be carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), repair work could commence during Ratha Jatra this year. The decision aims to strike a balance between the urgent need for repairs and the preservation of the spiritual experience for devotees.
Several PILs had been filed in the Orissa High Court in the past, urging the State Government to take steps for opening the Ratna Bhandar. Last September, the High Court directed the government to form a high-level committee to oversee the preparation of an inventory of the Ratna Bhandar.
Earlier decisions by the Managing Committee of the Jagannath Temple recommended opening the inner Ratna Bhandar during the annual Ratha Jatra in 2024. The committee also proposed allowing the ASI to conduct a structural inspection of the inner Ratna Bhandar while deferring a decision on inventorying the precious jewelry stored inside.
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