Paan, Gutka Banned in Puri Srimandir from Jan 1, Penalty for Violation

Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has decided to impose a complete ban on paan, and gutka on the premises of Puri Lord Jagannath Temple from January 1, 2024. The violators will be penalized.

Even now there is a restriction on the consumption of tobacco-related products inside the Srimandir but it is not being enforced strictly. The temple is found to be littered with paan spit and empty gutka pouches.

In a statement on Tuesday, the SJTA stated that use of paan and gutka is against the sanctity of the temple. Apart from devotees, the SJTA also requested all staff, servitors and not to consume paan and gutka inside the temple premises.

The SJTA has written a letter regarding this to the Chhattisa Nijog.

The SJTA has also decided to restrict use of polythene pouches within the temple premises. Flowers and bhoga in polythene carry bags will not be allowed inside Puri temple. An awareness program will be taken up regarding it before its strict enforcement.

SJTA has imposed decent dress code for the devotees coming to Puri Jagannath temple from January 1, 2024.