Law Minister Denies ASI Claims on Srimandir Ratna Bhandar Opening

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has refuted the recent statement by the Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regarding the scheduled opening of the Srimandir Ratna Bhandar. Harichandan clarified that no official decision has been made concerning the opening of the shrine’s treasure trove on July 8.

“No decision has been taken yet on the opening of Ratna Bhandar on July 8. A government official has given a statement on the matter in an indisciplined manner, creating confusion to cover up their loopholes. Appropriate action will be taken against the official concerned as per norms. The government is in the process of deciding on the opening of the Ratna Bhandar,” stated Harichandan.

The Law Department also released a statement, asserting, “No proposal from the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee regarding the opening of Ratna Bhandar has been received by the Government today. If any such proposal is received by the Government in the future, necessary action will be taken.”

Earlier in the day, ASI Superintendent DB Garnayak had announced that the Ratna Bhandar would be opened on July 8 for inspection. According to Garnayak, the inspection, which will involve the inner wall of the Ratna Bhandar, is to be conducted in the presence of both the core committee and the technical committee.