Puri, Apr 26: The Odisha government has taken a significant step to enhance the security and management of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. A Special Security Battalion, led by Commandant Tapas Ranjan Das, has been appointed to ensure the safety of devotees and the sanctity of the temple.

This move comes as the temple witnesses an increasing number of visitors, posing challenges for the administration.

The new battalion will focus on anti-terrorist operations, streamlined darshan arrangements, and the security of associated temples like Gundicha Temple and Mausima Temple.

With over 1,200 personnel, including inspectors and sub-inspectors, the force aims to provide a secure and organised environment for devotees.

Earlier, the state government had issued a notification for the creation of a Special Security Battalion for the safety and security of the 12th-century temple. According to a notification issued by the Home Department on January 31, as many as 1,083 posts in different ranks will be created for the special battalion.

An official in the Home Department said that the newly created posts will be filled up by relevant recruitment rules and provisions of the ORV (Odisha Reservation of Vacancies) Act.

The notification further said that in- principle approval has been given for outsourcing various services of Group D staff for the special Security Battalion.

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