Argus News - Wedding Guest Arrested for Flying Drone in Puri

Puri, Jan 22: Security concerns resurfaced in Puri after a drone was spotted flying over the Jagannath Temple, a designated no-flying zone.

The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon, prompting immediate action from Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, who directed Singhadwar police to investigate.

A special team quickly traced the drone to Janhimundia Square, where it was seized. Police arrested 25-year-old Madhusudan Sarangi from Kajidiha, Cuttack, for operating the drone.

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According to police, Madhusudan had come to Puri to attend a wedding ceremony and flew the drone over the temple area, violating strict restrictions.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already marked the Jagannath Temple and its surroundings as a no-flying zone. Despite repeated warnings, several incidents of drones flying over the temple and nearby areas have been reported in the past, often used to capture videos.

SP Prateek Mishra reiterated that no individual or organization is permitted to operate drones over or around the temple, stressing that such actions pose serious risks to temple security. He urged the public to strictly adhere to the restrictions.

Police officials acknowledged that the absence of anti-drone technology has made enforcement challenging, leading to repeated violations. The SP confirmed that requests have been made to the state government for advanced equipment and technical support to strengthen temple security.

The arrest highlights the growing need for stricter enforcement and technological intervention to safeguard one of India’s most revered religious sites. With thousands of devotees visiting daily, authorities emphasize that drone restrictions are not merely procedural but essential for public safety and the sanctity of the temple.