In Odisha, Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has decided to ban the use of mobile phones of officers, policemen and servicemen in the Puri temple. This decision was taken in the meeting of ‘Chhattisa Nijog’ of the temple on Saturday (20 September 2025). SJTA chief administrator Aurobind Kumar Padhi told reporters that in the first phase, the police and other officers will be banned from using mobile phones on behalf of the police and other officers and later it will also be expanded to the sevadars.

SJTA chief administrator Arabind Kumar Padhi said, “For any emergency or communication of important messages, the officers will be able to use mobile phones by going to the specified place. No one will be allowed to use mobile phones openly inside the temple.” Padhi said that the temple administration will issue guidelines in this regard. He warned that if someone is found to be involved in indiscipline, action will be taken against him. In the Puri Jagannath temple, a ban has already been imposed on carrying mobile phones or any other camera equipment.

Shri Jagannath Temple one of Hindu pilgrimage sites

The Shri Jagannath Temple of Puri, Odisha is not only one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites of India, but it is also a unique symbol of the diversity of Indian civilization and culture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (form of Lord Vishnu/Krishna), his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. Every year lakhs of devotees come here to visit. In particular, Jagannath Rath Yatra has become a global festival, in which devotees from India and abroad are involved in large numbers.

History and construction of temple

The Puri Jagannath Temple was built in the 12th century by the King Anantavarman Chodungga Dev of the Ganges dynasty. This temple is an excellent example of the Kalinga architectural style, including a huge peak, carved walls and a sanctum sanctorum equipped with religious symbols. The height of the temple is about 65 meters. The Neelchakra (metal cycle) located on its peak is a special symbol of the temple. Jagannath Dham is one of the Char Dham (Badrinath, Dwarka, Rameswaram and Puri), which is considered to be the path of salvation in Hinduism.

Also read: India-Rus Trade Deal: Will Good News come from America? Piyush Goyal will go to US, trade deal will be made on the trade deal!