The Odisha government is yet to decide on the reopening of the Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath temple in Puri, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said on Wednesday (June 19th).
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Bhubaneswar/Cuttack: The Odisha government has yet to decide on the reopening of the Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath temple in Puri, as stated by Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Wednesday.
This clarification came after a senior officer of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) mentioned to the press that they were prepared to start repairing the Ratna Bhandar, or treasury, from July 8, sparking speculations about its opening on Ratha Jatra on July 7.
“No decision has so far been taken on the opening of Ratna Bhandar,”
-the minister asserted.
The previous BJD government had pledged to reopen the Ratna Bhandar for inventory and repair work during this year’s Ratha Jatra.
It was last opened 46 years ago, in 1978.
The reopening of the Ratna Bhandar emerged as a significant political issue during the recent elections in the state. Criticizing the ASI officer, Harichandan remarked,
“Action will be taken against him for giving wrong and misleading information.”
He emphasized that the decision on reopening the Ratna Bhandar would be made after a thorough examination of the matter.
In parallel, the state government informed the Orissa High Court that the Judicial Commission report on the missing keys of the Ratna Bhandar would soon be made public. Former high court judge Raghubir Das conducted an inquiry into the matter and submitted his report to the state government in 2018. A petition was filed in the high court, seeking the release of this report.
During the hearing on Wednesday, the state government conveyed to the court that the report would soon be presented in the assembly for discussion, and further actions would be based on its recommendations.
The decision on whether to reopen the Ratna Bhandar of the Jagannath temple in Puri is a complex issue involving religious, political, and administrative considerations. Here are a few perspectives on the matter:
- Cultural and Religious Significance: The Ratna Bhandar holds immense cultural and religious importance. Reopening it after 46 years for inventory and repair could ensure the preservation of its contents and maintain the integrity of the temple’s treasures. However, this must be handled with great sensitivity to the religious sentiments of the devotees.
- Administrative Preparedness: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has indicated readiness to commence repairs, which suggests that necessary technical preparations have been made. However, the Odisha government’s cautious approach indicates a need to balance logistical readiness with legal and procedural compliance, including ensuring proper communication and avoiding misinformation.
- Political Implications: The reopening has become a significant political issue. Past promises and current decisions can influence public perception and trust in the government. It is crucial for the state government to manage this issue transparently and responsibly to avoid political fallout and maintain public confidence.
- Legal and Procedural Compliance: The involvement of the Orissa High Court and the pending Judicial Commission report on the missing keys add layers of legal scrutiny. Ensuring that all actions are legally sound and transparent is essential to avoid any allegations of misconduct or mismanagement.
- Public Interest and Safety: The safety and security of the temple’s treasures are paramount. Any decision to reopen the Ratna Bhandar must prioritize the protection of these valuables and ensure that proper security measures are in place.
Overall, the Odisha government needs to carefully weigh all these factors and make a well-informed decision. Engaging with all stakeholders, including religious leaders, the ASI, and the public, can help in making a balanced and transparent decision that respects the religious significance, ensures legal compliance, and addresses public and political concerns.
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