Puri, Sept 3: In a major administrative overhaul, the newly reconstituted Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC), chaired by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, held its first meeting on Wednesday and approved several key reforms aimed at streamlining darshan, rituals, and security at the 12th-century shrine.

One of the most significant decisions was the approval of a pilot queue-based darshan system (Dhadi Darshan) at the temple’s Natamandap. This move is expected to eliminate chaotic crowding and ensure a more orderly and spiritually enriching experience for devotees. A nine-member committee led by the Puri District Collector has been formed to oversee its implementation and develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

Preparations for ramps and barricades are already underway, with special provisions for differently-abled devotees. The Archaeological Survey of India has also approved air-conditioning of the Natamandap to enhance comfort during darshan.

In a first, the committee has formed a dedicated security sub-committee, headed by former Lt. Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Girish Chandra Murmu, to address recent security concerns and ensure robust protection of the temple premises.

The meeting also saw the formation of 14 sub-committees, including four statutory ones focused on finance, rituals, Ratna Bhandar (temple treasury), and appeals. These committees will guide governance and operational matters, ensuring better coordination across temple functions.

Additionally, the committee expressed concern over the misuse of the term “Jagannath Dham” in commercial contexts and resolved to seek legal remedies. A press briefing by the Gajapati Maharaja is scheduled for September 6 to address this issue.

Shree Jagannath Temple Administrative chief Dr. Arabinda Padhee emphasized that these reforms aim to preserve sanctity while improving accessibility and management. “With structured darshan and enhanced security, we hope to uphold the dignity and discipline of Mahaprabhu’s temple,” he said.

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