Panel to request govt to open Puri temple’s ratna bhandar during rath yatra

According to reports, the last inventory of ratna bhandar was done between May 13 and July 23 in 1978. Though it was opened again on July 14, 1985, no fresh inventory was made.

Based on the ASI’s letter to the Shree Jagannath Temple Administraiton (SJTA), the managing committee decided to request the state government to allow the ASI to inspect the ratna bhandar during the rath yatra, when the deities embark on a nine-day annual sojourn to Gundicha temple.

“It will help in proper inspection without affecting the rituals and will cause no harm to the darshan of lakhs of devotees visiting the temple every day. The managing committee will send a recommendation letter to the state government in this regard,” Puri collector Samarth Verma told reporters after the meeting.

Verma said the state government will also be requested to form a high-level committee headed by preferably a retired judge of the Supreme Court or High Court to supervise the opening of the inner ratna bhandar and its repair.

“Meanwhile, a technical committee will be formed comprising officials of ASI, members of managing committee and SJTA, which will use modern technology like laser scanning and other survey mechanism for external assessment of the condition of the ratna bhandar. The committee will give its report before the next meeting of the managing committee,” Verma said.

The decision of the managing committee came following growing demand from different quarters for opening of the treasure house of the shrine to inspect its structural safety. Multiple PILs are also pending in the Orissa High Court, seeking opening of the treasure house.