Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has emerged as a decisive and action-oriented leader in the wake of the recent security breach at Puri Srimandir, where a drone was spotted capturing unauthorized visuals of the temple’s sacred rituals.
Despite a strict ban on drone flights over the revered Jagannath Temple, a video captured on May 30 and circulated via social media has raised serious concerns. The footage shows a servitor offering prayers and tying the “bana” (flag) atop the temple’s pinnacle—a daily ritual central to Jagannath tradition.
The video’s open circulation, despite existing restrictions, has exposed glaring security lapses. It has sparked widespread outrage among devotees and raised questions about the adequacy of the current security framework at one of India’s holiest sites.
Taking swift and firm action, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the sanctity and security of Srimandir. He stated:
“This is a clear violation of the no-drone regulations. We are identifying the gaps and taking urgent corrective measures. The safety of Srimandir and the faith of millions of devotees are paramount.”
Minister Harichandan confirmed that the government has already initiated the procurement and deployment of anti-drone technology around the Srimandir premises. This advanced system will ensure:
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Real-time detection of unauthorized drones
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Jamming and neutralization capabilities
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Protection of sensitive rituals and temple activities
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Preservation of religious sanctity
He further emphasized that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, is committed to maintaining the highest level of security for the temple, ensuring a safe and seamless darshan experience for devotees.
Authorities have also begun tracing the source of the viral video, identifying the individuals responsible for the breach, and preparing to take strict legal action under applicable laws.
Minister Harichandan’s proactive stance has been widely appreciated by devotees and the broader community, who have called for tighter enforcement of no-fly zones, stronger surveillance measures, and harsher penalties for violators.
A high-level meeting involving the temple administration, police, and technical experts is expected soon. The agenda will include:
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Strengthening ground and aerial surveillance
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Deploying drone jamming systems
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Enhancing digital monitoring and response mechanisms
Prithviraj Harichandan’s leadership in this crisis has demonstrated resolute action and clarity of purpose—qualities that have earned him a growing reputation as one of Odisha’s most reliable and reform-oriented ministers. His assurance that anti-drone technology will be operational soon reflects the government’s serious intent to protect Srimandir and uphold the sentiments of devotees across Odisha and beyond.
The Odisha government remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the dignity, tradition, and sanctity of Puri Srimandir—a symbol of faith for millions. Under the decisive leadership of Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, the state is moving swiftly to ensure that such breaches are not repeated, and that Srimandir continues to stand as a beacon of security, tradition, and devotion.
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