Puri, 16th Oct 2025: A meeting of the Shree Jagannath Temple Security Sub-Committee was held today to discuss enhancement of the temple’s security. Key decisions included the adoption of anti-drone technology and AI-powered surveillance cameras for improved security. Modern security technologies used at Ram Mandir (Ayodhya) and Tirupati Temple will also be adopted at the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The meeting was chaired by Girish Chandra Murmu, Chairman of the Security Sub-Committee, where key discussions were held on how to further strengthen security measures.
After the meeting, Girish Chandra Murmu informed the media that discussions focused on identifying required infrastructure, technology, and human resources to enhance the temple’s security. A detailed action plan will be formulated based on the discussions.
Key Points Discussed:
Requirement of a dedicated security system for Shree Mandir.
Estimation of budget and timelines to make this system operational.
Proposal to completely ban mobile phones inside the temple premises — even police personnel, staff, and servitors won’t be allowed to carry phones inside.
Walkie-talkie communication systems to be introduced soon.
Murmu further added that since the temple is declared a Red Zone, any drone entering the temple airspace must be detected and neutralized using specialized technology. They will visit other major temples to study their security systems, which will then be implemented at Shree Mandir.
There is also a plan to raise public awareness among devotees regarding security rules. Strict surveillance and control measures will be in place both inside and around the temple, extending to the entire city of Puri if necessary.
Provisions under the Shree Mandir Act may be amended to enforce these new rules. There will be restrictions on mobile usage even for officials — alternate communication solutions will be arranged.
SP Prateek Singh’s Statement:
Puri SP Prateek Singh highlighted four key points discussed in the meeting:
1. What foundational infrastructure is required for temple security?
2. Which advanced technologies and technical expertise need to be deployed?
3. How to effectively manage crowd control inside and outside the temple?
4. How to handle emergencies if any arise?
AI cameras will be installed for crowd control and surveillance, and both police and private security personnel will receive special training on their responsibilities, including how to interact with devotees professionally.
A quick response team (QRT) will be formed. Technologies used in other prominent temples will be studied and adopted for Shree Mandir.
Senior Servitor Madhab Mahapatra’s Remarks:
Madhab Mahapatra welcomed the government’s initiative to enhance temple security, calling it commendable. However, he stressed the need to educate devotees about the security measures in place. Clear information about darshan timings and queue times should be provided to devotees to avoid unnecessary crowding.
He emphasized the installation of sufficient CCTV cameras and mentioned that Israel-made technology is being used for Ram Mandir security, while Indian electronics technology is in use at Tirupati. A study of these systems will help decide what’s best for Jagannath Temple.
Participants of the Meeting:
- The meeting was attended by:
- Puri SP Prateek Singh
- Puri Collector Divyajyoti Parida
- Members of the Shree Mandir Management Committee
- Senior servitors of the temple
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