Puri, Jul 9: Just days before the Rath Yatra 2026, a drone was spotted flying over the Jagannath Temple in Puri on Thursday morning, sparking serious questions about temple security.

The incident occurred around 5:30 AM when police received information about the drone hovering above the shrine for a prolonged period.

Acting swiftly, Puri SP Prateek Singh directed the formation of a special police team and tasked the Singhadwar police station with immediate action.

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The team successfully tracked the drone to Matimandap Sahi area, where it was seized. The operator, identified as Jayakrishna Mandal from Kolkata, was detained and taken to Singhadwar police station for questioning.

Police confirmed that flying drones over or near the temple premises is a punishable offense, and legal action will follow after investigation.

The timing of the incident has heightened concerns, as Puri is currently preparing for the annual Rath Yatra, which draws millions of devotees.

To ensure safety, Odisha Police has already launched “Operation Chakravyuh,” a large-scale security drill involving commandos from the Special Tactical Unit (STU), sniper teams, bomb disposal squads, K9 units, and fire services.

A mock drill was conducted near the temple to simulate responses to potential terrorist threats, including evacuation of devotees and neutralization of attackers.

Authorities emphasized that strict vigilance is being maintained around the temple and the Grand Road (Bada Danda) to safeguard devotees during the festival. Police reiterated that unauthorized drone activity poses a serious security risk and will be dealt with firmly.

The incident has underlined the importance of heightened surveillance and coordination among security forces ahead of one of Odisha’s biggest religious events.