Demolition around Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

Government of Odisha in pursuance of its plan to promote heritage tourism in the State, has started demolishing the very heritage around 75 meters of the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri. In its span fall 18 Mathas that were established as early as 11th to 12th Century. These religious centers are as historically important as the Temple itself. Some of them have an important role in the rituals and ceremonies carried out at the Temple. Among the so far demolished structures is the Raghunandan Library that was a part of the Emar Matha. It was an invaluable repository of scriptures related to the Jagannath Temple.

Indic Collective Trust has filed a Writ Petition before the Hon’ble Supreme Court on behalf of the Mahants of affected Punjabi Matha, Radhaballabha Matha and a follower of Shree Vaishnava Sampradaya, challenging the demolition drive. The Supreme Court has granted liberty to the Petitioners to challenge the demolition drive before the High Court of Odisha, and on grievances from any orders of the Hon’ble High Court, the Petitioner may approach the Supreme Court.