Puri/Bhubaneswar, Oct 11: Two separate incidents at Odisha’s iconic temples have sparked concern over security and public awareness.

In Puri, a four-wheeler was found near the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) of the Jagannath Temple late Friday night, prompting swift action from the police.

According to Puri SP, the vehicle, registered under the name of Biraja Prasad Panda from Bhubaneswar, was fined ₹2,500 for unauthorized entry. The SP stated that some individuals, especially during late hours, mistakenly follow Google Maps and end up near the temple premises. In such cases, security personnel immediately intervene, escort the vehicle out, and impose fines.

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To prevent further incidents, the Puri Police have decided to write to Google requesting restrictions on four-wheeler navigation beyond Marichikot Chhak. This move aims to ensure that no vehicles are misdirected toward the temple’s restricted zones, especially by unsuspecting devotees relying on digital maps.

In a separate incident in Bhubaneswar, a man was detained by Lingaraj Police for allegedly carrying a firearm inside the Lingaraj Temple premises during the afternoon hours. The individual was apprehended within the temple complex, and preliminary investigations suggest he entered the premises with a gun.

Police have taken the man into custody and are currently interrogating him to determine the motive and circumstances behind the incident. Authorities are also reviewing security protocols to prevent such breaches in the future.