Rath Yatra 2026 / SJTA Files FIR Over Unauthorised Entry On Debadalana Chariot During Rath Yatra

Puri, Jul 31: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has lodged a police complaint against an unauthorised individual who allegedly climbed atop Goddess Subhadra's chariot during this year's Rath Yatra by disguising himself as a servitor.

The administration described the incident as a serious violation of temple traditions and said strict legal action would be pursued against those responsible.

FIR Filed At Singhadwara Police Station
SJTA has filed an FIR at the Singhadwara Police Station in Puri after photographs circulating on Facebook and other social media platforms showed an unidentified man standing on Debadalana, the chariot of Goddess Subhadra, while the deity was seated on the chariot during the annual festival.

According to the FIR, the individual was not an authorised servitor but had allegedly entered the chariot wearing saffron robes and attire resembling that of a servitor.

Only Authorised Servitors Allowed On Chariots
The temple administration reiterated that only designated servitors are permitted to remain on the chariots once the deities have been ceremonially placed during Rath Yatra.

It noted that this restriction has been repeatedly communicated before the festival and that no unauthorised person is allowed to climb or remain on any of the three chariots during the rituals.

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Administration Seeks Identification Of Accused
SJTA has requested the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Singhadwara Police Station to identify the individual seen in the photographs and initiate legal proceedings against him.

The administration alleged that the person deliberately dressed like a servitor to evade scrutiny and gain unauthorised access to the chariot.

Temple Traditions Will Be Strictly Protected
Shree Jagannath Temple Chief Administrator Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee said the administration would adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards any act that violates temple customs.

"No disorderly or illegal activity on the chariots will be tolerated. Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has always remained committed to preserving the centuries-old traditions of the temple and ensuring that the rituals and services of the deities are performed without disruption. Strict action will continue to be taken against anyone found violating temple traditions and rules."