Bhubaneswar, May 7: The Odisha government has announced a major decision regarding the management and settlement of Jagannath Temple land, aiming to resolve disputes and ensure transparency in administration. Under the new policy, land belonging to Lord Jagannath, both within the state and outside, will be brought under government control. However, people who have been residing on temple land for decades will be granted settlement rights, offering them long-awaited relief.

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan chaired a high-level meeting to discuss the issue, highlighting the need for a uniform settlement policy to safeguard temple assets. He revealed that nearly 36,000 acres of Jagannath Temple land exist, with 25–30 percent under long-term occupation by individuals and families. Once approved by the Chief Minister and the state cabinet, the new policy will be implemented, creating a corpus fund for the temple’s future.

Also Read: Puri Police Tightens Norms Ahead of Rath Yatra 2026, Chariot Construction Races Ahead

The government has also announced the launch of a dedicated portal, “Shrisampatti,” to ensure transparency in land records and transactions. This digital platform will help prevent fraudulent sales and mismanagement of temple property, a problem that has plagued the administration in the past.

According to official data, Jagannath Temple owns 60,426.94 acres of land across 24 districts in Odisha and an additional 395.25 acres in six other states. In Puri alone, nearly 80,000 families occupy temple land but have been deprived of government benefits due to lack of settlement rights. The new policy is expected to bring them into the fold of welfare schemes, while also strengthening the temple’s financial base.

The decision has been widely welcomed by the public, as it promises to resolve decades-old disputes and provide clarity on ownership. Political observers believe this move will not only benefit the temple administration but also enhance trust among devotees and residents.

The government has set a timeline of three months to finalize the uniform land policy, with implementation expected within two years. Once operational, it is anticipated that all disputes related to Jagannath Temple land will be resolved, ensuring better management and safeguarding of the Lord’s sacred properties.