CM Patnaik’s focus on the development of major temples is a calculated move to tap into Hindu religious sentiments which can keep the BJP at bay. This seems to have alarmed the BJP leaders who are finding fault with the various projects launched by CM, writes Arabinda Mohapatra
The ambitious Puri heritage corridor project has turned controversial with ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and BJP coming face to face on the issue. While the state BJP has launched a full-fledged campaign against the manner in which the BJD is carrying out the project, the Naveen Patnaik-led regional party maintains that the saffron leaders are trying to politicize the issue. The BJP has accused the Patnaik government of violating the rules relating to ancient monuments while carrying out the project. But BJD has refuted the allegation asserting that nothing illegal has been done in the execution of the project. The party has also taken potshots at the BJP leadership for trying to block the development of Puri and the 12th century Jagannath temple, the most famous shrine of the state which is visited every year by lakhs of devotees.
Conceived in 2016, the Puri Heritage Corridor Project is aimed at transforming the holy town into an international heritage city with several ancient temples and enough amenities for the visitors to enjoy their stay in Puri which is not only a great centre of pilgrimage but also a major attraction for tourists who love beaches and bathing in the sea. The project includes redeveloping major portions of the town and in the vicinity of the temple for visitors and tourists. The project includes multiple developmental initiatives with the cost running into several crores. After the initial Rs 800 crore from the state government’s Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture at Puri (ABADHA) scheme, another Rs 265 crore will be provided in the first phase of the project which includes Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) building redevelopment, a 600-capacity Srimandir reception centre, Jagannath cultural centre including Raghunandan library, integrated command, and control centre etc.
The 12th century Jagannath temple, which is Puri’s biggest attraction and also at the centre of the present controversy, is a centrally protected monument with the ASI in-charge of its maintenance. As per rules laid down under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment and validation) Act, construction activities within a 100 metre around such a monument’s perimeter are restricted. Constructions can only be carried out with approval from the National Monuments Authority (NMA) which is a body under the Union Ministry of Culture. It was set up under the provisions of AMSAR Act for the protection and preservation of monuments and sites through management of the prohibited and regulated area around the centrally protected monuments.
